Frescobaldi - Tenuta Castelgiocondo : Ripe al Convento 2016

Frescobaldi creates a great intense and elegant Brunello di Montalcino

The estate

Located south-west of Montalcino, Frescobaldi - Tenuta Castelgiocondo is one of the seven pillars of the Frescobaldi family estates. With an exceptional vineyard located on great terroirs, this estate is the source of some of the greatest red wines of Tuscany.

The vineyard

Ripe al Convento 2016 is a Brunello di Montalcino wine developed from a south-facing vineyard at 450 metres of altitude and planted on a mostly schist soil.

The vintage

2016 is considered one of the best Tuscan vintages.

The mild winter advanced a slightly early bud burst, followed by the first buds blooming at the end of March. The spring and early summer, marked by heavy rainfall and very cool temperatures, gradually slowed down flowering and veraison. The good summer conditions, combined with the relieving rain, benefited the last phase of grape ripening, leaving the vines in great health. Optimal conditions (good day/night temperatures, a cool and dry north wind and low humidity) led to a harvest of healthy, fully ripe and perfectly balanced grapes.

Winemaking and ageing

The grapes were harvested by hand and rigorously sorted in the vineyard and in the cellar.

Fermentation took place in stainless steel vats, with frequent pumping over, to guarantee the best extraction. Ageing in oak casks was finished by additional ageing in bottles. This Brunello di Montalcino wine was put on the market six years after the harvest.

Blend

Sangiovese (100%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Brunello di Montalcino Ripe al Convento 2016 from Frescobaldi - Castelgiocondo

Tasting

Colour
Shining and intense, the ruby red colour is augmented by garnet highlights.

Nose
Intense and elegant, the nose releases fruity notes (blueberry, cherry, black cherry) as well as floral touches. Throughout the tasting, the aromatic bouquet unveils tertiary scents (tobacco, tea leaf, roasted coffee bean and leather) which evolve into a subtly spicy touch (nutmeg, black and white pepper).

Palate
The palate entices with its nicely velvety and well-integrated tannic framework, its remarkable balance between alcohol and acidity and its long and enduring finish.