About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Argentiera comes from approximately 40 hectares on the estate’s upper hillside, where the vineyards reach about 200 metres and descend toward the coast. These include the first estate plantings, established in 2000. Elevation is 180–205 metres a.s.l.; the rows face north, northwest, west, southwest and south. Marl and shale are interspersed with sandstone and siliceous rocks, within rocky clay-limestone terrain. Planting density is 7,500 vines per hectare and the stated yield is 60 quintals of grapes per hectare.
Grapes
Blend proportions vary by vintage. Latest published vintage (2023): 48% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested manually. Alcoholic fermentation and maceration last 25 days at a controlled 28–30°C in stainless-steel and cement vats. Malolactic fermentation also takes place in stainless steel and cement.
Ageing
The wine matures for 14–16 months in oak barriques, tonneaux and large casks, followed by 12 months in bottle.
Tasting profile
The profile moves from warm, summery sensations toward fresh balsamic and aromatic notes embedded in the tannins. Its energy is balanced by freshness, structure and a capacity to develop over time.
Vintage notes
The 2023 season was broadly balanced despite unusual conditions. Winter was cold and dry, while May brought rain on 18 of its 31 days. Rainfall on 25 and 26 August refreshed the soils and fruit ahead of harvest. Picking started in early September with younger vineyards. Each parcel was then monitored until its optimum maturity; Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from the highest sites were gathered between late September and early October with excellent phenolic ripeness and sound fruit. Harvest ended on 6 October. Yields were 15% higher than in 2022, with Merlot the most productive variety and the Cabernets naturally more limited. Early tastings showed refined aromas and a deep, firm structure, suggesting elegance and strong ageing potential.
Label / history
Created as the estate’s defining project, Argentiera was conceived to express the finest potential of Bolgheri. Its first vintage was 2003.
