Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The 12 ha production area spans San Fabiano at 250 m above sea level and Cellole at 500 m, where the vineyards face south-west. The vines are trained using the spur-pruned cordon system. Average yield is approximately 54 q/ha (5.4 t/ha).
Grapes
The 2014 blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 25% Petit Verdot.
Vinification
First-choice grapes undergo careful selection in the vineyard followed by further sorting in the cellar. Alcoholic fermentation proceeds at a controlled 28–32°C. Skin maceration lasts 20 days or longer, after which the grapes are pressed gently at approximately 0.6 atm. The wine matures on its lees and completes malolactic fermentation in wood; barriques are specified for this stage.
Ageing
Ageing lasts approximately 20–22 months in wood, followed by at least 12 months in bottle. The vessels are described as 500 L first- and second-use wood in the technical sheet.
Technical data
Alcohol is 14.32% vol, total acidity is 6.52 g/L (also expressed as 65.20 meq/L), net extract is 33.5 g/L and residual sugar is below 0.5 g/L. Production is reported as approximately 8,000–8,300 bottles. Available formats are 0.750 L, 1.5 L and 3 L.
Tasting profile
The colour is a very intense ruby red with faint violet tones and garnet nuances that become more pronounced with age. The fine, intense and persistent nose ranges from violet and cherry to liquorice, pepper, vanilla, cocoa and tobacco. Full and firmly structured on the palate, it is warm, enveloping, soft and elegant, supported by a complex tannic framework. The finish is exceptionally long. Its overall harmony allows enjoyment while relatively young, although extended ageing brings out its fullest expression.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16–18°C. Pair with traditional Tuscan and Italian cooking, including pasta with sauces, timbales, braised dishes, game and grilled meats. It also accompanies long-aged cheeses such as pecorino di fossa, Lardo di Colonnata and Cacciucco alla livornese.
Vintage notes
The published release is the 2014 vintage.
