About this wine

Vineyard and terroir

Toren is a 0.6-hectare single vineyard in Niclara, part of Cortaccia sulla Strada del Vino. Its south-facing vines were planted in 1987 and later, at a density of 9,000 vines per hectare. The vineyard lies at 270–320 m according to the 2022 technical sheet, while the wine page gives a narrower range of 300–320 m. Yields are limited to 25–30 hl/ha.

The loamy sandy soil contains a high proportion of limestone gravel. Sand enables the ground to warm quickly and release stored daytime heat to the vines at night. Deep-rooted vines make grape ripening less dependent on the weather conditions of an individual year, while the limestone contributes intense berry aromas.

Grapes

100% Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are reserved for TOREN Riserva only in years with ideal weather and fully mature fruit.

Vinification

After harvest, the berries are carefully destemmed and cleared of foliage. Alcoholic fermentation occurs during a three-week maceration. Malolactic fermentation proceeds during the subsequent year in barriques.

Ageing

The wine matures for one year in 225-litre barriques, followed by six months in stainless-steel tanks for clarification. It is then bottled and given a further two years of maturation. Its stated ageing potential is at least 20 years.

Technical data

The 2022 vintage has 14.5% alcohol, 5.5 g/L acidity and 0.5 g/L residual sugar. Production is 1,800 bottles.

Tasting profile

Dark garnet red, full-bodied, structured and harmonious. The complex bouquet opens with spicy tobacco before developing cassis and cranberry nuances. Fresh, clearly defined acidity supports a firm framework of soft, ripe tannins. The palate is intense and the finish persistent.