Questo vino

Vineyard and terroir

The grapes come from the Casi and San Pietro in Avenano vineyards. The vines were planted between 1990 and 1995 at a density of 5,000 vines per hectare and are trained as spur-pruned cordon and alberello. Yields are approximately 45 quintals of grapes per hectare. The clay soils are rich in iron, sulphur and quartz, with stones dominated by alberese and galestro.

Grapes

90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot.

Vinification

The bunches are rigorously selected in the vineyard and harvested exclusively by hand. After destemming and gentle pressing, the must begins spontaneous alcoholic fermentation in 53 hl truncated-conical wooden vats. Once alcoholic fermentation is complete, the wine remains in contact with the skins for approximately 20–25 days. It is then transferred to concrete tanks for malolactic fermentation.

Ageing

The wine matures for 18 months. Half is aged in Slavonian oak casks; the remaining half matures in second- and third-use 225 L barriques.

Tasting profile

Brilliant purple, developing garnet highlights with age. Aromas of violet, cherry and woodland berries combine with appealing spice. The palate is rounded, velvety and elegant, supported by substantial yet non-aggressive tannins. The finish is exceptionally long and intense.