2017 Poggio Di Guardia

The Story

For those who know and love Super-Tuscans, Poggio di Guardia needs no introduction. Two of the best-known, most critically acclaimed “Super-Tuscan” blends of all time Tignanello and Solaia, come from vineyards in the Chianti Classico region. Today, we're excited to bring you a bottling from the very same winemakers who are responsible for their fame. Stefano di Blasi will be familiar to well-heeled wine-bibbers as the genius behind such Italian gems as Solaia and Tignanello. And Federico Cerelli has been producing stunning wines throughout Tuscany for almost 20 years. Poggio di Guardia is a hidden treasure, but not for much longer as the accolades continue to pour in. This is a Gold Standard super-Tuscan, from high-elevation vineyards in the heart of Chianti and a reference-point Italian red that will age for decades.

Winemaking

The final blend is 40% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Rebo. The grapes are hand-picked and destemmed, then fermented in small stainless-steel tanks with wild yeast. Maceration takes about 20 days after fermentation. The wine is then racked to barrel, and the Rebo is racked in “Terracotta Orcio” for ageing. After ageing all the varieties separately for 14 months, the wine is finally blended just before bottling. Additional bottle ageing occurs for 10 months before release.

Tasting Notes

A very complex and unique red wine, a great example of a true 'Super-Tuscan wine’. The great complexity can be attributed to the altitude of the vineyard, some of the highest in Tuscany at 700m.The nose is nicely lifted and layered with concentrated cabernet-like blackcurrant, herbs, licorice and mint, plus oak character. It is full bodied, fairly dense, firm and well-proportioned with cabernet-like graphite on the finish. The focus and length here are excellent.