Ripa delle Mandorle Rosso, Castello Vicchiomaggio

The historical origins of Castello Vicchiomaggio can be traced back to the 5th century with period documents confirming the production of wine at that time. The present owners, the Matta family, acquired the property in 1964 and restored it back to its former splendour. The estate, with 150 ha, is one of the largest in the area, and of these, 32 ha are dedicated to the vine.
Castello Vicchiomaggio produces several styles of wine, from the traditional to the innovative. In order to achieve this, the estate has been carefully classified according to its soil type and exposure. Each wine is named after a specific vineyard area. All production and winemaking is supervised by John Matta who studied viticulture and oenology. The estate is totally family run, thus ensuring a unique and identifiable style of wine.
Vicchiomaggio is consistently classified amongst Italy's top estates and in 2002 John Matta was awarded the Tasca d'Almerita Trophy for "Best Italian Producer of the Year". This was followed by the IWSC 2005 accolade for Italian Wine Producer Of The Year with the 2003 La Prima winning the Carpineto Trophy For Best Sangiovese in the same competition. A unique achievement for an Englishman!

The 2004 FSM Merlot was awarded "3 Bicchieri" in the 2008 Gambero Rosso

Grapes: 75% Sangiovese & 25% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Ripa delle Mandorle vineyard

Note: The name means "Hill of the Almond Trees". The Sangiovese is aged in large oak barrels of 25-50HL each whilst the Cabernet is matured in French oak barriques. A very accessible Super Tuscan with quite a lot of Cabernet although the Sangiovese still predominates. The Cabernet portion of the blend suggests a potential for ageing, but the wine is ready to drink when released.

Serve: At room temperature with roast and grilled meats and full flavoured pasta dishes.

Taste: An accessible style of "Super Tuscan" made from Sangiovese with Cabernet. Forward ripe red fruit style with a freshness that makes this wine eminently drinkable in style.