La Torre Ampelio Toscana Rosso 2019

Organic

A blend of Alicante (40%), Sangiovese Grosso (30%) and Ciliegiolo (30%). After fermentation, it is aged for 12 months in small used-oak casks, then bottled without filtration. This cuvee was created by Luigi Anania and is a reflection of his particular approach to, and understanding of, the historical basis for the terroir of this specific and unique zone of Brunello. This traditional Tuscan blend is medium-bodied with lingering tones of wild cherry, sweet earth, and potting soil. The bouquet is a combination of perfumed violets, dark plum, and Tuscan herbs. The tannins are a bit firm once opened but will soften with aeration. 2019 is a lovely vintage in Tuscany and it shows in the quality of this fruit.

The Anania family purchased the La Torre property in 1976. The estate is located in the commune of La Sesta, approximately 8 kilometers south of Montalcino in the highest altitude section of the Brunello appellation, quite near to the lovely village of San Angelo in Colle. The first vintage at La Torre was the fabled 1982 which set a fine precedent for future work.

The estate comprises 36 hectares of which 5.6 hectares are devoted to the vine. The vineyards are planted almost entirely to the Sangiovese Grosso grape and have a full southern and southwestern exposure. Small parcels of Ciliegiolo and Alicante complete the mix of grape varieties.

Their organic vineyards, at approximately 1500 feet above sea level, are divided into four squares and are harvested, by hand, separately in late September through early October under normal conditions. All grapes are destemmed prior to fermentation. Only indigenous yeasts are used. All wines at the estate are bottled by gravity and are not filtered.