80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, 5% Syrah, 5% Colorino from Poggiotondo, the 50ha family estate of Alberto Antonini, just outside Empoli in Cerreto Guidi. The vineyards are situated on beautiful hills, some of them conch or shell-shaped, facing south and southwest. The soil is clay and calcareous, with a strong presence of white seashells. Climate is moderated by the influence of the Mediterranean sea. Grapes are hand-harvested in Sept/Oct with yield of 1.45kg/ha. Gently pressed and fermented in stainless steel tanks at 28°C with cold maceration pre-fermentation for 3 days at 8°C. 10 months ageing in 225l French oak barriques.

Quite an interesting smell. Good fresh acidity. Young fruit but not abrasive. Smooth and balanced.
Alc 12.5%, TA 5.6g/l, pH 3.45, RS 2.9g/l. Available from Wine Direct and 109 branches.
15/10/2008

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