Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The 2022 fruit came from two vineyards at Tenuta Poggio Casciano near Florence: Merlot from Poggio al Mandorlo and Cabernet Franc from Rapale. The sites lie at 290–450 m above sea level on soils rich in clay and limestone with a small proportion of silt. Grapes are hand harvested from very low-yielding vines in small, carefully selected parcels, including separate selections within individual vineyards. A further manual selection at the winery retains only the best bunches.
Grapes
Blend proportions vary by vintage. Latest published vintage (2022): 52% Cabernet Franc and 48% Merlot. Cabernet Franc was an unusual choice for the estate; winemaker Gabriele Tacconi selected a Loire Valley clone to explore the variety’s potential in Tuscany.
Vinification
Each variety is fermented separately in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats. Alcoholic fermentation and maceration are assisted by periodic punching down and délestage. An extended rest on the skins promotes color extraction. The wine is then racked into small oak barrels, where malolactic fermentation is completed with periodic bâtonnage. The broader vinification description specifies two bâtonnage sessions per week for three months before the final blend.
Ageing
Approximately 24 months in French oak barriques. New French barriques are used for malolactic fermentation, and barrels from multiple coopers are selected to keep the oak from obscuring the identity of the vineyards and varieties.
Technical data
The 2022 contains 15.5% alcohol by volume. Production is limited to fewer than 10,000 bottles and takes place only in selected years.
Tasting profile
The 2022 is deep ruby red. Its complex nose combines sweet vanilla, ripe red fruit and menthol nuances. The palate is broad and structured, with dense tannins supporting length and persistence.
The current 0.75 L release is described more expansively as dense, inscrutable red with scarlet highlights. Fresh fruit, preserves, Mediterranean botanicals and blackberry-jam tart lead into fine wood and vanilla. The palate mirrors the bouquet, combining finely textured tannins with a rich, warm body and preserved-fruit depth; the finish is saline, with an umami accent.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18–20 °C. Pair with flavorful and spice-rich Italian dishes, hearty sauces or long-aged cheeses.
Vintage notes
The 2022 growing season was very hot and dry. Spring rainfall built sufficient water reserves for the vines to withstand summer without severe water stress, producing wines with strong structure and quality.
Label / history
Alauda debuted with the 2011 vintage as a limited-production expression of Ruffino’s artisanal approach. It is made only in exceptional years. The wine combines international varieties with the tradition of Tuscan reds.