southern exposure on a gently sloping hillside.

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 85%, Cabernet Sauvignon clone CL15, all on 420A rootstock, and Merlot of unknown clonal origin 15%.

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

Continental Winter with abundant snow, strong winds and frosts. Spring and Summer were failry dry, with record breaking temperatures in the Summer with peaks over 40 °C (104 °F). A providential rain prior to the harvest allowed the grapes to reach optimal maturation. Harvest quantities were 30% below average.

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

it was placed in small (lt.225) new French and American oak barrels for 12 months.

in our temperature controlled cellar for over 45 months

dark, deep, blackish-ruby hue.

bold and intense, with black currants, licorice, black pepper and a hint of vanilla.

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

Alcohol 13.56%, total acidity 5.22 per thousand, color 18.51, sugar 1.54 per thousand, polyphenols 3,655 mg/l, dry extract 31.02 g/l.