Southern exposure on rolling hillsides.

Planted in 1995 at a density of 2.80x0.8 meters (~9x3 ft), equivalent to 4,464 vines/ha (1,860/ac).

Trained to a bilateral cordon with vertical shoot positioning.

Sangiovese Clone A548 80%, Cabernet Sauvignon clone CL15 10% and Syrah clone 470 10%, all on 420A rootstock. Other grapes present in the vineyard but not utilized are Canaiolo, Colorinoand Merlot.

Sandy clay with limestone from the Pliocene era (6 million years ago). 

The good seasonal progression allowed great quality fruit in terms of color extractability and sugars. These characteristics allowed for wines of great structure which are ideal for long cellaring.

Small lot fermentation at 25-30°C  (77-86°F) using indigenous (wild) yeast. Fifteen day maceration with frequent aerations, pump-overs and punch-downs of the cap for optimum polyphenol extraction. 

Placed in new French and American oak barrels on March 16th, 2010 it was taken out to settle in stainless steel tanks at the end of April 2011. 

In our temperature controlled cellar for over 45 months.

Dark, deep, blackish-ruby hue.

Bold and intense, with blackberries and licorice, black pepper and a hint of vanilla.

Full-bodied palate with exceptional dark fruit intensity and spice. Big structured with well-integrated, supple tannins and a long, persistent finish.

Alcohol 14.1%, total acidity 5.85 per thousand, color 14.74, sugar 1.75 per thousand, polyphenols 3650 mg/l, dry extract 31.8 g/l.