Castello di Volpaia : Balifico 2018

An elegant and rich Tuscan wine

The estate

Owned by the Stianti Mascheroni family since the 1970s, the Castello di Volpaia winery is named after the castel built in the 11th century. Located in the heart of Tuscany, between Florence and Siena, the Castello di Volpaia estate has become an essential reference point among the finest Chianti wines over the years.

The estate produces fine Chianti Classico and Toscana wines which, with their roundness, elegance and freshness, enhance the potential and aromatic richness of the king grape variety, Sangiovese.

The vineyard

Castello di Volpaia watches over a 46-hectare vineyard of organically-grown vines. The estate also practices massal selections using native clones.

The wine

Castello di Volpaia's Balifico 2018 is a Tuscan wine that stems from a 5-hectare vineyard. Facing south/southwest, the vines are 20-25 years old on average and lie on sandstone soils.

The vintage

A particularly hot March preceded cold and rainy April and May. Budburst was late, as was flowering. The milder conditions from June 10th onwards persisted throughout the summer season and encouraged rapid vine development. This warm and dry weather was punctuated by rainy periods ensuring sufficient water reserves in the soil. From the beginning of September to mid-October, the weather remained mild but dry. Early October marked the beginning of the harvest, a few days later than in recent years.

Vinification and ageing

Aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels.

The blend

Sangiovese (65%)

Cabernet Sauvignon (35%)

Castello di Volpaia’s Balifico 2018: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

Lively, the wine is a beautiful ruby colour with purple highlights.

Nose

Elegant, the nose combines fruity fragrances (blackberry, blueberry) with notes of oak and cinnamon.

Palate

The palate is seduced by its structure and its persistent and fruity finish.