Tenuta Belguardo was purchased in the 1990s after the Mazzei family identified the potential for producing quality wines on the estate. In line with their philosophy of innovation, the family implemented an intense re-planting programme, carefully selecting grape varieties and clones. The estate is situated in the Maremma between the hills of Grosseto and Montiano, and within the official Morellino di Scansano viticultural zone. The estate is only 10km from the coast which plays an important role in the microclimate of the vineyards which cover 60 hectares and are planted with Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Alicante, Vermentino, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and other indigenous varieties.
Vineyard location: 70-130 metres above sea level. South south-west exposure
Soil: Mainly sandstone and limestone
Vine age: 14 years old
Training system: Spur cordon-training
No. of vines per hectare: 6,600
Harvest: Hand picked from 12th September (Sangiovese), from 30th August (Alicante)
Fermentation temperature: 28 – 30° C
Period of maceration: 14 – 16 days
Ageing: 12 months in small French and American oak barrels (225 litre / 30% new)
Bottling: January 2014
The 2012 vintage began with a relatively cold and rainy spring. Careful vineyard management resulted in a crop of healthy grapes. A hot and dry summer ensued, ideal for ripening. Slightly lower temperatures and some light rain in early September perfectly rounded off the growing season giving rise to wines that are fine and elegant.
Good depth of colour, displaying the classic notes of ripe red fruits associated with Maremma with some blackberry and balsamic tones. The Serrata is structured, yet balanced with supple tannins and plenty of fruit on the finish.
Roasts, chicken dishes, grilled vegetables, mildly spicy sauces, mild cheeses.
Ageing Potential: Up to five years
Maremma, Tuscany
80% Sangiovese
20% Alicante
Natural Cork
13.5%
5.9 g/l
Yes
Yes
