| Kevin's comments: The rich nose is followed by crisp minty nuances and a spicy mélange of clove, cinnamon, and vanilla, which concludes with a prominent vein of slaty minerality. The palate is structured with firm but fine tannins. |
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. From the second half of the last century, the Frescobaldi's were keen players in the development of Tuscan vine-growing They were the first to plants new varieties such as Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot and Pinot and to adopt new planting, cultivation a wine-making systems in their properties. From the second half of the 1950's and throughout the 1960's, the company's growth was impressive.
In 1989 Frescobaldi bought the Castelgiocondo estate in Montalcino, the largest vine-growing farm in the Brunello area. Although the estates have gone many changes over the years, ownership has never changed hands and still, after 30 generations, is in full control of the Frescobaldi family.
One of the major and largest vine growing businesses in Europe, Frescobaldi owns nine estates covering over 1,000 ha of vineyards, all located in excellent areas for fine wines. Directly manager by its family members, Frescobaldi produces almost 7 million bottles and the wines are exported to over 60 countries throughout the world.
The Castiglioni Estate is located on the hills of Chianti Colli Fiorentini, about 20Km south west of Florence. At Castiglioni, the clay rich soil guarantees better water retention and allows the vines to resist the summer drought conditions that often happen in this part of Tuscany. Consequently, the grapes balanced and unstressed ripening produce a rounder and fuller taste to the wine
The Estate's relatively low altitude between 180 and 200M contributes to the speedy and complete ripening of Castiglioni's grapes. Sangiovese, in particular, has a naturally aromatic note and Castiglioni Chianti is a perfect reflection. The Estate enjoys an average production of 500,000 bottles.
TENUTA DI CASTIGLIONI IGT TOSCANA
Grapes: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Sangiovese from 130 hectares of vineyards situated at an altitude of 200-250M above sea level on the Castiglioni Estate
Soil: Clay, medium texture
Pruning: Spur pruned cordon
Density: 5,500 vines per hectare.
Yield: 40 Hl per hectare
Harvest: Manually at the beginning of October
Vinification: The grapes were softly pressed. Fermentation at 28C in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks for 10 days with 12 days maceration. Malolactic fermentation took place immediately following alcoholic fermentation. The wine was aged in stainless steel tanks and barriques for 12 months.
Colour: Deep purple red.
Serve: At room temperature to accompany red meat dishes and cheese.
Taste: The rich nose is followed by crisp minty nuances and a spicy melange of cloves, cinnamon and vanilla, which concludes with a prominent vein of slaty minerality. The palate is structured with firm but fine tannins.
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