The 2020 Vintage at Trinoro

Hot weather and a strong southerly wind persisted into September, and some exposed clusters began to shrivel. Several days of rain then broke the season, cooled the valley and restored aroma to the fruit. Merlot harvesting began on 3 October, with every vineyard origin separated into its own tank. Cabernet Franc ripened rapidly between 6 and 10 October, culminating in the highest and most important hillside parcels.

By 7 December all lots had fermented and entered barrel. On 19 February 2021, the blending group narrowed the possibilities to four Cabernet Franc and two Merlot lots. Repeated trials reduced the Merlot component until the blend gained the desired length and power. The final quantity was only about 6,000 bottles, approximately half the estate’s normal flagship output.