Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Merlot di Santa Maria is a single-varietal cru from the Santa Maria vineyard in Petriolo, Greve in Chianti. The west-facing vineyard lies close to the villa on a slightly concave plateau whose soils transition from those typical of Lamole to the more clay-rich terrain lower in the valley. The vines are almost 30 years old; their age contributes complexity, tannic elegance and strong ageing potential. Yield is 35 hl/ha.
Grapes
100% Merlot.
Vinification
The grapes are picked by hand in the first half of September. Bunches are selected manually, followed by optical sorting of the berries. After destemming, the fruit remains for 15 days in a small stainless-steel tank. The wine is then racked, transferred and put through malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
Ageing lasts 18–24 months in French oak barriques, followed by at least eight months in bottle. The prolonged contact with French oak builds intensity, roundness and structure.
Technical data
Alcohol: 14–14.5% vol. Production: 5,000 bottles. Formats: 750 ml, 1,500 ml and 3,000 ml.
Tasting profile
Bright, dark-toned ruby. The nose is intense, with blueberry and liquorice. The palate is full without being overpowering, combining fruit with freshness and elegance. The tannins are soft and sweet, leading to a spicy finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18–20°C.
Label / history
After more than 25 years of growing Merlot, Vignamaggio dedicated this cru to the variety and named it for its best Merlot vineyard, Santa Maria at Petriolo.
