Purchased by Massimo Ferragamo in 2003, Castiglion del Bosco, after major investment in the vineyards and winery, has been restored to its position as a leading Montalcino estate. Ferragamo also bought an 11 hectare estate, Prima Pietra, near Riparbella, north of Bolgeri in the Maremma. Locally trained oenologist, Cecilia Leoneschi, who has been working at the winery since 2003 oversees the vineyards and the cellar.
The grapes for Prima Pietra are grown in a well-ventilated vineyard at 450 metres above sea level, with a constant breeze from the Mediterranean. Vines are Guyot trained and planted at a density of 9,600 vines per hectare. The soils are a mix of gravel and iron rich clay giving concentration to the wine.
The grapes are hand-picked and transported to Montalcino for vinification. The wine is fermented in large wooden vats at 28°C. Each grape variety is vinified separately. After fermentation, the wine is matured in French barriques, 50% new and 50% second passage, for 18 months before bottling (first 10 months as separate varieties). After bottling, the wine spends a further six months in bottle before release.
A relatively cool and rainy summer giving excellent vegetative balance and slightly higher yields than usual. Even ripening of bunches followed and harvest was later than surrounding estates, showing the unique microclimate of Prima Pietra. Some warm weather in September did not accelerate the ripening process thanks to the high altitude of the vineyards (450 metres above sea level) and the high diurnal range. Harvest began on 12th September with the Merlot and finished on 29th September with Cabernet Sauvignon.
Clear and lively. The nose is broad with notes of red berries and delicate spices alongside a pleasant balsamic hint on the finish. Rich with velvet-like tannins and a long finish.
Serve with roasted meats, game or mature cheese dishes.
Serve at 16°C.
Wine Spectator: 93
James Suckling: 94
Falstaff: 94
Vinous: 92
Maremma, Toscana IGT
50% Merlot
30% Cabernet Sauvignon
10% Cabernet Franc
10% Petit Verdot
Natural Cork
14%
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