Villa Ragazzi

Villa Ragazzi is a family owned microwinery in Napa Valley that produces a Sangiovese described by critics as "likely the best" in California. The Rodeno clone was the first Sangiovese planted in Napa Valley, in 1985. Although its origins are undocumented, having been sourced from a very old mixed planting in Sonoma, the low vine vigor and tiny berries are similar to the Sangiovese Grosso from which Brunello di Montalcino is made. Villa Ragazzi Sangiovese, and its sibling super-Tuscan blend Faraona are consistently full-bodied, with medium intensity and color; the acidity typical of this varietal assures cellaring potential, though on release the wines are wonderful companions at table. Distribution is extremely limited; interested parties should contact the winery directly.