Antinori - La Braccesca : Sabazio 2021

The freshness and aromatic richness of a great Tuscan wine

The estate

The Antinori – La Braccesca estate stretches across a total surface area of more than 500 hectares, of which 265 are dedicated to viticulture.

The vineyard

The 340 hectares of vineyards on sandy loam rich in gravel are divided into two main parts. The first, consisting of 237 hectares, is located between the towns of Montepulciano and Cortona. The second part extends over 103 hectares as far as Montepulciano and includes three of the estate’s most emblematic plots from which the Cervognano, Santa Pia and Gracciano vintages are made.

The wine

Sabazio d’Antinori – La Braccesca is a Rosso di Montepulciano wine which has been produced since 1992. Its name refers to Sabatino Lulli, or Sabazio, a medieval monk who famously began producing wines in Montepulciano.

The vintage

The winter season was mild with heavy rainfall. However spring was drier, especially in March, giving the best conditions for the budding of the vines. A sudden drop in temperature on the night of 8 April led to a sharp reduction in yields but did not affect the quality of the grapes. The hot, dry summer allowed for an ideal ripening phase. The harvest began in the first week of September.

Winemaking and ageing

After de-stemming, the selected grapes were gently pressed. The juice obtained was transferred to stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature not exceeding 28°C for alcoholic and malolactic fermentation over a period of 4 months.

Blend

Merlot
Sangiovese (Prunolo gentile)

Characteristics and tasting tips for 2021 from Antinori - La Braccesca

Tasting

Colour
This Tuscan wine has a beautiful ruby red colour.

Nose
The nose is woody, mingling fruity notes (black cherry, raspberry) with floral and balsamic scents.

Palate
Supple and smooth, this red wine unveils velvety tannins which last until a refreshing and delicious finish.