Kevin's comments:  A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, matured in 50% new French oak for 12 months. The result is a soft and creamy wine with aromas of ripe forest berries, coffee, chocolate and with integrated tannins on the palate.

Chateau Tasting Notes

MARCHESI DE FRESCOBALDI

The Frescobaldi name goes back many centuries into the history of art, culture, trade and finance of Italy in general and Tuscany in particular. The Frescobaldi family has always succeeded in understanding and anticipating change by successfully combining experience with innovation. In the last 700 years grape growing has been a predominant feature in the Frescobaldi family business. Frescobaldi has been a keen player in the development of Tuscan vine-growing and was the first to plant new varieties such as Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot and Pinot and to adopt new planting, cultivation and winemaking systems in their properties.

One of the major and largest vine growing business in Europe, Frescobaldi owns nine estates and includes over 1,000 hectares of vineyards, all located in prime areas where the "terroirs" are of the utmost importance. Directly managed by its family members, Frescobaldi produces almost 7 million bottles and the wines are exported to over 60 countries throughout the world.

CASTELLO DI NIPOZZANO is located in the heart of the Chianti Rufina DOCG area, 30Km north-east of Florence; the Estate totals some 626 hectares, 184 hectares of which are vineyards. Built around the year 1000 the castle is the symbol of Frescobaldi's continuity and long winemaking history. Sangiovese and Cabernet are the main grapes grown and the estate produces and bottles about 1,000,000 bottles a year.

Grapes: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc grapes from the 19 hectare Mormoreto vineyard.

Age of Vines: 20 years old Yield: 35HL per Hectare Altitude: 350M above sea level.

Winemaking: The grapes were hand harvested in mid October and then softly pressed. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at less than 30C lasting 10 days. Maceration lasted for a further 20 days . Malo-lactic fermentation took place immediately after alcoholic fermentation.

Ageing: 12 months in French oak barriques, with 50% new and the rest used.

Taste: The colour is an intense red with purple reflections. The bouquet is rich with aromas of ripe forest berries and plums that are beautifully complemented by hints of chocolate and coffee. On the palate, the wine is soft and almost creamy with perfectly integrated and polished tannins. The body is full but not overwhelming while the finish is long and well balanced.