Review: Wines of Banfi Centine, 2011 Releases
Banfi’s Centine line (pronounced CHEN-tee-nay, or so the label says), are Italian blends designed to be sustainable, but more importantly, affordable. Retailing for all of 11 bucks, you should find them widely available everywhere.
2010 Banfi Centine Toscana Bianco White Wine – A blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. Surprisingly refreshing, it’s got lots of pineapple and mango character, and moderate (though not exactly bracing) acidity. Mild creaminess in the finish remind you that there’s Chardonnay in here, but I’d drink this over Santa Margherita any day. B+
2010 Banfi Centine Toscana Rose Wine – A pink blend Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese, it’s not my favorite base for rose wines, but it works well enough. There’s really not a whole lot to it: Some strawberry notes, a little bit of green vegetable on the finish, and then it’s whisked away. The finish is refreshing. B
2009 Banfi Centine Toscana Rosso Red Wine – A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese, this red is light bodied and mild, with light chocolate and moderate plum tones. The finish is a bit prune-heavy, but overall it’s pleasant enough for an everyday Italian wine. B-
$11 each / banfi.it