Country: Italy Region: Tuscany Varietal: 100% Sangiovese Vintage: 2013  Colour: Red Style: Dry Producer: Conti Costanti Description: Vineyards The grapes for this wine come from vineyards covering approximately nine hectares, planted between 1990 and 2000. They are situated at an altitude of 450 metres above sea level, facing south-southwest on chalky, clay soils. They are spur-cordon trained with a density of 4,000-7,000 plants per hectare. Yields are 34 hectolitres per hectare. Vintage information the first phase of growth was accompanied by frequent rainfall, which continued until mid-June, with spring temperatures that were slightly below average. The next phase, starting from the last 10 days of June was very dry and hot. Rain then held off until the beginning of September. During September, daytime temperatures were good while the nights were rather cool, providing the very favourable difference between day and night temperatures needed to foster ideal ripening. From the last week of August onwards, the ripening of the grapes evolved perfectly. The wines produced in this vintage exhibit extraordinary characteristics for Sangiovese. In addition to an excellent alcohol content, total polyphenols, anthocyanins and extracts are very high and rarely found in this grape varietal. A five star vintage. Vinification The grapes were hand picked into 17 kilo crates. After gentle pressing, fermentation took place in temperature-controlled concrete tanks with temperatures reaching a maximum of 28-30°C, with a long maceration on the skins lasting 20-22 days. The wine was aged in new, medium-toasted, French oak tonneaux (500 litres) for a period of 24 months, followed by extended ageing in bottle. Ageing Potential: 20 - 25 Years Tasting Notes An intense ruby red with garnet hues. The typical aromas of violets and small red berries are followed by hints of vanilla, cedar and coffee. On the palate it is full-bodied and warm with a densely-woven texture and robust tannins, while the finish is persistent and rounded. Good capacity for ageing. Food Matches: Red Meat / Beef / Lamb / Venison