Fabio started working this vineyard in 2012. Le Gonnare is from the Bolgheri Rosso Superiore DOC of Castagneto Carducci, on the warm Etruscan Coast, in Tuscany. The soil there is quite unique for Bolgheri, with a high percentage of clay and stones, as if made for ripening Merlot grapes.

Fabio sees himself as a facilitator. As much as possible, the grapes are left to run their course and human intervention is only a small part of the process. The grapes in this blend are treated with the utmost care, harvested manually at each variety’s full ripening point, in small baskets. Fermentation takes place with natural yeasts only. The wine is then blended and placed in barriques (one third new oak) where it is aged 18 months before bottling, without fining or filtration.

Predominantly Merlot with 15% Syrah, this is a refined and nicely rounded wine with beautiful aromas of black currant and red berries with spice undertones. Full-bodied with a palate of ripe black cherry and notes of toast, round velvety tannins and a aromatic long-lasting finish. Try pairing this one with grilled meat, stews or a charcuterie board.