Andrea Costanti has been running this estate for over twenty years and it has been in his family for more than 200... It is situated in Colle al Matrichese in the eastern part of the Montalcino zone, just outside the town of Montalcino. It covers 10 hectares of vineyards and benefits from the talents of consultant oenologist Vittorio Fiore. Their style is characterised by the striking elegance and intensity of the best wines from this zone, combining the power of Montalcino with the elegance that comes from vineyards situated at a high altitude. Country: Italy Region: Tuscany Varietal: 100% Sangiovese Vintage: 2010 Colour: Red Style: Dry Producer: Conti Costanti Description: Vineyards Costanti has ten hectares of vineyards just outside the town of Montalcino.  They are planted at 400-450 metres above sea level on galestro soil.  The vines range from 6-25 years old.  The Riserva is made from a selection of the best grapes from the estate`s oldest vineyards. Vintage information The 2007 vintage was rather uncharacteristic, with an unusually warm winter and spring followed by a torrid July which created near-drought conditions and put the vines at risk. Some much-needed rain fell during a relatively cool August which was followed by a warm September. This stabilised the vines, resulting in well-proportioned bunches.The Brunello Consorzio gave the vintage a five star rating. Vinification Fermentation took place on the skins in temperature-controlled stainless steel tank and lasted approximately two weeks.  After fermentation, the wine remained in oak for 36 months, of which the first 18 were in large Slovenian barrels (30 hectolitre and above) and the second 18 months in French tonneaux (3.5-6 hectolitre capacity).  The wine remained in bottle for a futher 24 months before release.  Ageing Potential: 20 - 25 Years Tasting Notes Bright ruby red in colour, this wine has typical perfumes of morello cherry, cinnamon and spice. On the palate it has wonderful elegance and balance with silky tannins softened by cask and bottle ageing. Spiced red berry fruit characters are supported by an attractive savoury character, with a hint of liquorice on the long finish. Food Matches: Red Meat / Beef / Lamb / Venison