About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit is selected from estate vineyards lying closest to the winery at Gavorrano in the province of Grosseto. The vines grow at 100 m a.s.l. on medium-textured, clay-rich soil with abundant stones. Training is by spurred cordon, with 5,900 plants per hectare and a stated yield of 55 q/ha (5.5 t/ha).
Grapes
40% Sangioveto, 30% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Syrah. The small Syrah component distinguishes Vigne Alte from the original Poggio alla Guardia, adding fullness, personality and a peppery accent.
Vinification
Merlot is harvested at the end of August; Sangioveto, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon follow in mid-September. Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, with completed malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
This is the only wine in the Rocca di Frassinello range described as receiving no barrique ageing. It matures for 12 months in concrete and then for four months in bottle.
Technical data
Maremma Toscana DOC. A youthful, medium-structured red conceived for immediate drinkability. Available in 0.375 L and 0.75 L formats.
Tasting profile
Ruby red to deep violet, with purple reflections. The bouquet is intense, full and concentrated. The palate is full yet elegant, with marked personality, spice and pleasant black-pepper nuances.
Serving and pairing
Pairs with roast and braised meats and mature cheeses. Traditional Maremma dishes are also recommended, including acquacotta, spaghetti alla buttera and pappardelle with wild boar.
Label / history
First produced in 2004, Poggio alla Guardia Vigne Alte is presented as an approachable introduction to the estate’s range. Its fruit comes from a careful selection of vineyards close to the winery, while the addition of Syrah differentiates it from the original Poggio alla Guardia.
