Barone Ricasoli : Casalferro 2019

A balanced and fruity Tuscan red wine

The estate

A historic Tuscan family, the Ricasolis trace their origins back to the 7th century. In 1141 that the history of the Ricasoli family became intertwined with that of the vine. Written records show that the family already owned Brolio Castle at that time, making Barone Ricasoli the oldest wine estate in Italy. They were visionaries, exporting their wines beyond Italy's borders from the 1600s onwards, and in 1867 the Brolio cuvée won a gold medal at the Paris Universal Exhibition. This quest for innovation continued unabated until, in 1872, a key figure in the family, Baron Bettino Ricasoli, took part in the birth of a legend in Italian winegrowing by creating the first production rule for Chianti. Today, the Barone Ricasoli estate covers 1,200 hectares, including just over 240 hectares of vines, making it the largest vineyard in the region.

The vineyard

Barone Ricasoli's 2019 Casalferro is a Tuscan wine from a vineyard divided into three distinct plots: Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino and Vigna Sodacci. The first, covering 5 hectares, was planted in 1993 at an altitude of 400 metres and faces south. The second, covering 3.25 hectares, was planted in 2001 at the same altitude, but with a north-westerly exposure. Finally, the last plot, covering 4.22 hectares, was planted in 2003 at an altitude of 500 metres, with a southern exposure. These three plots benefit from a varied soil and thus give the wine its complexity and structure.

Winemaking and ageing

Fermentation took place in stainless steel vats at a controlled temperature of 24°C to 27°C, with skin maceration lasting 14 to 18 days. This wine is aged for 21 months in barrels and barriques, 30% of which are new oak and 70% of which are one or two wines.

Grape variety

Merlot (100%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Casalferro 2019 from Barone Ricasoli

Tasting

Colour
The wine has an intense, deep red colour.

Nose
The nose releases aromas of ripe red fruit, with spicy and woody notes.

Palate
The palate unveils a lovely complexity, combining a pronounced tannic structure with a great freshness. Fruity aromas are underpinned by notes of vanilla and toast. The finish is wonderfully long and lingering.

To serve

For the best tasting, this Italian wine should be served at a temperature of between 16 and 18°C.

Food and wine pairing

Casalferro 2019 from Barone Ricasoli pairs perfectly with dishes such as a roasted pork filet mignon, beef ragù, pasta with truffles or hard cheeses.