Other CC Rosso Fortissimo vs. RJS Super Tuscan (is one "better")

TimTheWiner · Jan 3, 2013

So I really want to get another red going. I just ordered a RJS En Primeur Aussie Shiraz and I currently have a CC Red Mtn Cab bulk aging. I have been advised that I may be interested in the RJS Super Tuscan or CC Showcase Rosso Fortissimo? Is there a general concensus as to one being "better" (obviously this is pretty subjective). I tend to like big bold cabs (if this helps at all). Not as big of a fan of Merlot in general. Any suggestions?

ibglowin · Jan 3, 2013

Really subjective. Only way to tell is to make one of each. Both are excellent kits!

TimTheWiner · Jan 3, 2013

I really wish I had the $. I would start 3 kits every month or two. I'm just starting the Shiraz, and then this one. Then I really want to do a Sauv Blanc and Gewürztraminer. Damn

eblasmn9 · Jan 3, 2013

I have made both of them. I am not sure it helps, but you can't go wrong with either of them. The RJS Super Tuscan is 6 months old and still bulk aging and the Rosso Fortissimo is 9 months old and bottled. I was more impressed with the Super Tuscan early with mouth feel, taste and the aroma of the wine. The Rosso was thin early on, even with a grape pack. I thought I would have to increase the mouth feel with maybe tannin or more oak, but at 7 months the mouth feel greatly improved and I bottled with no tweaks at all, unusual for me. I had a split at 9 months and thought it was the best tasting wine at that age that I have made. I bought another one. I have not tasted the RJS Super Tuscan since after clearing. I will be doing a s02 test later this month and will taste it then. The Super Tuscan came with a huge bag of untoasted American oak shavings.
I also like bold cabs and both of these wines have bold flavors with great fruit at a young age. I think they will age very well. For me, I would get the one I could get on sale.