Podere Belguardo, 2006 Tenuta di Belguardo.

Grapes: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot.

Vinification: This is the "Grand Vin" of the estate which combines weight and density, complexity, and elegance, all given by the exceptional "terroir" where it is born. The vineyard is at 70-130m a.s.l. with a west/southwest exposure. The vines are cordon trained, spur pruned and planted at a density of 6600 vines per hectare, they are hand picked from hand picked from September 18th (Cabernet Sauvignon); September 21st (Sangiovese) and from August 26th (Merlot). Fermentation is between 28 & 30°C with skin maceration for 18 days (Cabernet Sauvignon); 16 days (Sangiovese) and 18 days (Merlot). Ageing is in stainless steel tanks and then in small French oak barrels for 18 months. Production is limited to around 1250 cases.

Taste: A full, concentrated nose of crushed raspberries with a hint of vanilla invites you onto the muscular but silky palate of mixed fruits of the forest, earthy spices and complex wood characters. Thick, structured palate and well defined finish.