This vineyard is located in a foothill area at an altitude of 40 to 55 meters, on a moderately sloping west-facing slope. The soils originate from colluvial sediments resulting from the erosion of the surrounding hills, consisting of marly limestone and, secondarily, calcarenites from the Sillano Formation. These soils are very suitable for growing Merlot. In fact, this grape variety requires fairly deep hilly soils with good water reserves, as it suffers more than other red varieties from water stress. In fact, if poorly located, this grape variety is negatively affected by climate change and excessively hot summers. The location of the vineyard near secondary watercourses and its relative proximity to the Arno River lead to good temperature variations and cool nights, which are favorable for maintaining good acidity in the grapes. The temperature range, in synergy with the soil characteristics such as the loamy clay texture and a good limestone content, predispose the grapes to the synthesis of elegant and complex olfactory notes and good aromaticity.
The Merlot grapes are harvested manually, allowing for an initial careful selection directly in the vineyard. Once in the cellar, the bunches undergo a second manual selection, followed by destemming, to eliminate any imperfect berries and ensure that only the healthiest and ripest part of the grapes is used. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in small temperature-controlled stainless steel containers, with maceration on the skins for about 21 days. During this period, delestage and pumping over are carried out regularly, techniques that are essential for promoting a balanced extraction of color, tannins, and aromatic compounds, helping to build the structure and complexity of the wine. Once alcoholic fermentation is complete, the wine is transferred to fine French oak barriques, where malolactic fermentation takes place. This process gives the Merlot's flavor profile greater softness and roundness. The wine then continues to age in the same barriques for 24 months, during which time it slowly evolves, enriching itself with nuances and depth. This is followed by further aging in the bottle for at least 18 months, an essential phase for achieving perfect expressive balance and greater harmony between structure, elegance, and longevity.
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