Aquila d'Oro Toscana is an example of a "super Tuscan" style wine. The label clearly identifies it as Indicazione Geografica Tipica, the region in question is Tuscany, and the back even uses the dreaded "super Tuscan" phrase. It's a dry red, balanced carefully between fruity and acid. The wine is predominantly Sangiovese, with, I suspect at least some Cabernet Sauvignon, but I'm just guessing based on the aroma and taste, and I'm quite prepared to be completely wrong; they don't seem to want anyone to know the blend. It's a perfect wine for spaghetti and meatballs, or a rich lasagna, something that can stand up to the dryness and flourish. It's a 12.5 ABV, and meant to be enjoyed with good food and good friends.

I note that Trader Joe's is deliberately attempting to explore lot purchases of wines, not only from specific providers as they have done for years, but also out doing Charles Shaw and Bronco wines by having wines bottled and blended exclusively for Trader Joe's. This is a wine I'd try again, and at $3.99, it's an easy choice for a pizza or meatball sub, or sausages grilled at the local park, thought I admit that there's something about this particular wine that really does make me lean towards pairing it with cheeses. The ever-interesting Jason has a review of the 2006 Aquila d'Oro Toscana here.