Antinori - La Braccesca : Sabazio 2023

Characteristics and tasting notes of Sabazio 2023 by Antinori - La Braccesca

Tasting

Appearance
Beautifully clear, the wine reveals a vibrant ruby red colour of medium intensity.

Nose
The nose opens with an intense and complex aromatic bouquet, dominated by red fruit notes such as strawberry and cherry. Subtle hints of blood orange and gentle cocoa nuances enrich this olfactory palette.

Palate
The attack is smooth and pleasant, revealing a silky texture supported by delicate tannins and lovely freshness. This medium-bodied wine delivers a flavoursome and lingering finish, marked by an elegant balsamic touch.

Food and wine pairings

This Italian red wine pairs wonderfully with traditional Tuscan cuisine, such as pasta with meat or tomato sauce, as well as risottos. It also accompanies roasted or grilled meats (pork, beef, lamb), game, fine charcuterie and aged cheeses such as pecorino or parmesan beautifully. Its versatility also allows it to enhance Mediterranean dishes or certain lightly spiced Asian recipes.

The elegance and freshness of a Rosso di Montepulciano wine

The estate

Acquired in 1990 by the renowned winemaking family, the Antinori - La Braccesca estate stretches across the foothills of Cortona, in Tuscany, Italy. Today, the property is managed by Albiera Antinori, supported by her sisters Alessia and Allegra, alongside Renzo Cotarella, general manager and chief oenologist. Combining a centuries-old historical heritage with a resolutely modern approach, the estate stands out for its commitment to innovation while respecting local winemaking traditions, thereby producing wines recognised for their outstanding quality.

The vineyard

The estate covers 508 hectares, of which 334 are dedicated to vines. It is divided into two distinct zones. The first, devoted in particular to the production of Rosso di Montepulciano, lies on soils composed of sandy silts and fine gravels, offering excellent drainage and ideal thermal regulation. The second zone, located towards Cortona, features more clayey soils. Vineyard management relies on precision and sustainable viticulture, integrating modern technologies such as autonomous electric robots for soil maintenance and the reduction of inputs in Tuscany.

The vintage

The year 2023 began with a dry and warm autumn, followed by a mild winter with regular rainfall, allowing soil water reserves to be replenished. Budbreak, which occurred in early April under a cool and humid climate, helped avoid the risks of spring frost. Summer proved particularly hot, but August brought scattered rainfall and excellent temperature variations between day and night. These ideal conditions favoured a gradual and balanced ripening of the berries up to the harvest, which took place from 11 September to 7 October.

Winemaking and ageing

Upon arrival at the cellar, the grapes destined for Sabazio 2023 are destemmed and gently crushed. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks under strictly controlled temperatures, not exceeding 25°C, in order to preserve all the aromatic freshness. Malolactic fermentation then occurs naturally in these same vessels. The wine benefits from around four months of ageing in stainless steel tanks, without any wood contact, before being bottled at the end of June 2024.

Grape varieties

This Italian wine is made from a blend of Sangiovese (85 to 90%) and Merlot (10 to 15%).