Rocca di Frassinello : Baffonero 2017

Rocca di Frassinello reveals a complex and aromatic red wine from Tuscany

The estate

The Rocca di Frassinello estate is found at the heart of the Maremma Toscana. This estate is borne from the association between the very renowned estate in Chianti Classico, Castellare di Castellina, with Domaines Barons de Rothschild Château Lafite. Inaugurated in 2007, Rocca di Frassinello was designed by the famous Italian architect, Renzo Piano.

The vineyard

The Baffonero vineyard enjoys an excellent north/southwest exposure and very good ventilation, allowing for moderate temperatures between night and day and encouraging the grapes to ripen slowly, all while developing their aromatic expression and maintaining a beautiful level of acidity. The soils at the Baffonero vineyard are mainly composed of clay schists, allowing for an excellent drainage all while limiting yields from the vine, making it possible for the grapes to obtain an exceptional aromatic concentration and a very beautiful tannic structure.

The wine

This cuvée is produced from the Baffonero vineyard, one of the first vineyards to be planted within the Rocca di Frassinello estate. Enjoying a perfect exposure, the Baffonero vineyard is located just below the cellar built by the famous Italian architect, Renzo Piano.

The vintage

Although the mild and dry winter conditions encouraged early vine budding, late frosts at the end of April impacted yields. The high temperatures in May were mitigated by constant sea breezes combined by zero rainfall until early September. Although yields were lower than other vintages, the quality of this vintage was excellent. The grapes harvested gave rise to a velvety, aromatic, balanced and fresh wine.

Winemaking and ageing

Vinification in concrete vats. Malolactic fermentation. Ageing for 14 months in new oak barrels (100%), followed by 12 months of ageing in bottle.

Blend

Baffonero 2017 by Rocca di Frassinello is 100% Merlot.

Tasting

Colour

The wine is an intense ruby red colour.

Nose

The nose mixes fragrances of fruit (blackberry, blueberry) with vanilla, which evolve during aeration towards notes of tobacco, chocolate and coffee.

Palate

The complex palate seduces with its structure and body, as well as its freshness.