About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The Riserva is made only in exceptional years and in limited quantities from the estate’s oldest vines. At least 80% normally comes from Vigna Vecchia Mercatale; the 2019 was sourced entirely from this vineyard. Located in the Canalicchio cru at 283–290 metres above sea level, the parcel was planted in 1988 and is trained to spur-pruned cordon. Its predominantly clay soil has an exceptionally strong mineral component. The vineyard faces north at 12° NNE and receives easterly winds, conditions associated with balsamic aromas and a balance between fruit and acidity conducive to long ageing.
Grapes
100% Sangiovese.
Vinification
Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks with gentle daily pump-overs and délestage. Maceration lasts 35 days.
Ageing
The wine matures for 36 months in 25-hectolitre Slavonian oak casks.
Technical data
The 2019 contains 15% alcohol. Production comprised 3,653 bottles of 750 ml, 190 magnums and 25 double magnums.
Tasting profile
The 2019 balances substantial structure and savoury depth with refined elegance. Its profile centres on red and dark fruit, floral and balsamic aromas, cedar, rosemary and liquorice. Brisk acidity and saline minerality create tension, while firm, fine-grained tannins carry a persistent, spicy finish.
Vintage notes
The 2019 was moderately warm but never torrid. Cool nights and large diurnal shifts supported steady ripening; spring rain replenished water reserves, and well-timed summer rainfall prevented hydric stress. The final wine comes exclusively from Vigna Vecchia Mercatale and combines the generosity of the vintage with acidity, mineral tension and a substantial tannic structure. It was the nineteenth Riserva released by the estate since 1966.
Label / history
The first Riserva vintage was 1987. The bottling is reserved for exceptional harvests and represents the estate’s most selective expression of elegance, terroir and depth.
