Super Tuscans?

[tear wah]

Super Tuscan as wines from Tuscany, Italy that are made outside of the D.O.C. regulations for that area. In some cases, the wines are made from grapes that are not permitted for a certain wine (Cabernet Sauvignon is a common culprit), or the alcohol is too high, or the aging is not done to the approved standards of the appellations in Tuscany. These wines, now referred to as "I.G.T." wines (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) are technically the lowest on the Italian wine quality hierarchy, but are actually among the most exciting wines being made in Italy. Some have Sangiovese (Tignanello, Paretaio, etc.), some are Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot (Masseto or Sassicaia) and many are very expensive. many Italian traditionalists are lamenting the "loss of Italian identity" in these bold new "internationally styled" wines, but they're certainly worth a try for when you want to splurge. Just look for the words "I.G.T. Toscana" on the label, and you are drinking a "Super-Tuscan!