IGT means Indicazione Geografica Tipica (of specific geographic oringin) and guarantees that at least 85% of the grapes used in the wines have grown in the specifically, indicated region. The Bordeaux varietals such as cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot have become more and more important in Tuscany. They grow particularly well in the hills between the province of Pisa and Livorno, about Km 10 from the sea.
In this area, we find some of the most acclaimed Italian wines, such as Sassicaia, Ornellaia, and Masseto. There is plenty of sun to extract excellent flavors from the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot as well as assuring a good acidity and tannins, thanks divergence in the temperature between day and night. Indeed, these wines offer an elegant, smooth fruit and a good structure. Their best expression is found near Bolgheri.
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese
Vineyard Area: Between Bolgheri and Casino di Terra in Tuscany
Training system: Double-spurred cordon. Vines are on average 10 years old
Vine density: 4,500 guyot
Yield of grapes in wine: 70 hl/ha (3.5 ton/acre)
Soil: Mostly clay and stones
Harvest: First week of September for Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese first week of OctoberA short cryomaceration (holding crushed fruit at a low temperature prior to fermentation) is made once the grapes are selected and destemmed. The skins are kept in contact with the must at a controlled temperature of 28°C (82°F) for about
25-30days. While the must is in contact with the skins, periodic delestage (rack and return) is performed to achieve a good fruit flavors, soft tannins and stable color. Then the wine is separated from the skins by a soft pressing and is held in stainless steel tanks where the malolactic fermentation takes place. The wine is slightly filtered.
It is aged for 14 months in 1 year old French oak barriques. Once it is bottled, the wine is left to refine in the bottle for 4 months before release.
Alcohol: 13.5 %.
Winemaker’s note: This wine offers scents of black currant with a hint underbrush. The taste is rich and vibrant of blueberry and dry prunes, together with leather and earth accents. The finish is long lasting and balanced. It is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, aged 14 months. It pairs well with grilled red meat, roast chicken and
cheese.
Serving temperature: 18°-20° C (64°- 68°F)
Glass type: Balloon.