Tasting notes:

Established in 2001 near Bolgheri at 400m above sea level on hills surrounded by the lush woods of Monteverdi Marittimo, the 10 hectares of vineyards embrace the Tyrrhenian Sea below, which offers cooling breezes. This Cabernet Franc is fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged for 24 months in barriques. Deep ruby in colour, the wine shows black cherry and ripe raspberry, accented by smoky wood and kitchen spices with a hint of undergrowth. The palate is packed with sweet fruit and integrated wood, balanced by crisp acidity and linen-textured tannins. Mid-weight with a lingering finish exhibiting a sweet red pepper nuance, the wine will pair well with mixed lentils, red and white beans, slow-cooked with onions and lardons served over rice, perhaps accompanied by pork belly. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)