Country: Italy  Region: Tuscany  Vintage: 2009 Category: Sweet White  Color:  White Producer: Capezzana "Capezzana, situated in the Carmignano zone to the west of Florence, is owned and run by the Contini Bonacossi family, the latest in a long line of owners dating back to 804. They are certain of this date as they discovered in the archives of Florence a contract signed in 804 for the rent of vines and olive groves at Capezzana. Today, the responsibility for ensuring the continuation of such longevity now lies with siblings Benedetta and Vittorio Contini Bonacossi, who look after the winery and the vineyards respectively. Franco Bernabei is now consulting at Capezzana, and his presence is evident in the big step up in quality we've seen in the 2013 Barco Reale. The estate now has 90 hectares of vineyard, all of which are cultivated organically. The balance in the vineyard is now being preserved in the wines. The Vin Ruspo is dry and scented and delicious, while the reds are all displaying supple and silky tannins. It is exciting to see this ancient estate being revitalised by its current 'guardians'." Product Features: Sustainable;Vegetarian Winemaker: Benedetta and Vittorio Contini Bonacossi Vineyards: The grapes for the Vin Santo are grown on various vineyards on the 104 hectare estate. These vineyards face east, are around 150-200 metres above sea level and have schistous-clay soils. They are currently being converted to organic production. Vinification: The grapes were dried on cane mats in a well ventilated loft until January. After pressing, the must fermented very slowly in small oak and chestnut casks for at least four years. The casks are known as 'caratelli' and vary between 50, 70, 100 and 200 litres in capacity. The must underwent successive fermentations and clarifications with natural changes in temperature. Final yields were very low, often only a quarter or a fifth of the original grape weight. After ageing for five years in small chestnut and cherry casks, the wine remained in bottle for at least three months before release. Tasting Notes: Intense golden yellow in colour with concentrated perfumes on the nose; notes of candied fruit, sweet almonds and fruit cake. Rich and intensely sweet on the palate, it has dried apricot and fig flavours which are balanced by a lovely touch of freshness. Very long and spicy on the finish. Food Suggestion: The perfect way to end a meal, either with cheese or spiced fruit desserts. Closure: Natural Cork  ABV: 13.5%  Acidity[g/l]:7.02