Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The principal vineyards are Vigna del Castello and Vigna del Velo. The 2018 bottling also incorporates fruit from Vigna dei Cipressi, including grapes that had been destined for the single-vineyard A.D. 1441. The sites lie at 290 m with west–northwest exposure. Their medium-textured soils combine limestone clay and sand. Vines are trained to spurred cordon and Guyot at approximately 4,000 plants per hectare. The general profile gives a vine age of 25 years, while the 2018 sheet records 28 years. Yields are 60 quintals per hectare and 1.5 kg per plant.
Grapes
100% Sangiovese.
Vinification
The grapes are picked by hand and carefully selected before vinification. Fermentation is spontaneous with indigenous yeasts, followed by 30 days of maceration in stainless-steel tanks at a controlled 23°C. Harvest normally falls between late September and early October; the 2018 sheet records a mid-September harvest.
Ageing
The general profile specifies 30 months in 15 and 20 hl Slavonian durmast casks, followed by at least eight months in bottle. For 2018, ageing is given as 24 months in Slavonian oak casks and the full production cycle as five years.
Technical data
Alcohol: 14%. General production: 30,000 bottles; 2018 production: 25,000 bottles. Available formats are 750 ml European Bordeaux bottles, packed horizontally in cases of six or twelve, and 1.5 L bottles in individual wooden cases.
Tasting profile
The general profile describes a clear, intense ruby colour. The nose is complex, elegant and intense, combining ripe cherry, chocolate and tobacco with light spice and floral accents. The palate is structured, refined and persistent, with smooth tannins, pronounced acidity and a long, juicy finish. The wine is harmonious and balanced, with considerable scope for development.
The 2018 profile adds garnet glints to the ruby colour. Ripe cherry, citrus and sweet spices lead the aroma, with darker earthy nuances. The palate has substantial structure, integrated tannins and exceptional length.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18°C and allow the wine to breathe. Pair with red meats, mature cheeses and game; refined cuisine is also suggested for the 2018 release.
Vintage notes
The 2018 release draws on Vigna del Velo, Vigna del Castello and Vigna dei Cipressi and includes grapes otherwise intended for A.D. 1441. It was produced in 25,000 bottles and aged for 24 months in Slavonian oak, compared with the 30-month maturation and 30,000-bottle production in the general profile.
