Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The Cennatoio estate has been managed by Emiliano, Leandro and Gabriella Alessi since 1971. Its vineyards, interspersed with olive trees, cover 10 hectares at Panzano in Chianti, on the border between Florence and Siena. They face entirely south–southeast. The ground is hard to work, stony and rich in galestro.
Grapes
The blend is 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested by hand. Fermentation takes place in concrete vats, with approximately two months of skin contact. This extended maceration contributes to the wine’s deep colour and pronounced fruit aromas. Malolactic fermentation precedes transfer to barriques.
Ageing
The wine matures for several months in barriques and receives a further three months of bottle ageing. The product specifications indicate an overall ageing period of 24–36 months.
Technical data
Alcohol: 13% vol. The wine is offered in a 750 ml Bordeaux bottle, packed six bottles per case.
Tasting profile
The colour is intense ruby red with violet reflections. The nose is strongly fruit-driven, evoking ripe morello cherry and plum alongside sweet nuances of oak. Dense and powerful on the palate, it opens with vigorous tannins that gradually soften, allowing cherry and other red-fruit flavours to emerge.
Serving and pairing
Pair with traditional Tuscan appetizers, pasta dishes, ribollita, grilled meat or cheese.
Label / history
The name “Cennatoio” derives from cenno, meaning a signal or gesture. The explanation is associated with the estate’s proximity to Stinche Alte, once an outpost and prison of the Florentine Republic under the Medici: signals were reportedly made to Medici soldiers from the residence’s courtyard.
