Antinori - La Braccesca : Achelo 2016

The balance of a Tuscan Syrah

The estate

The estate is located on the lands of the Comtes de Bracci in Tuscany. The name La Braccesca is taken from ancestors and from its emblem : an arm with a sword. The Antinori family bought the estate in 1990. The 237 hectares allow the production of wines in the Nobile di Montepulciano and Cortona appellations, made with different grape varieties such as Syrah, Prugnolo Gentile and Sangiovese.

The wine

Cuvée Antinori - La Braccesca: Achelo 2016 is a Tuscan wine produced from the Syrah grape variety. This wine is fruity, balanced with a nice acidity and a very nice length on the palate, typical of the Cortona appellation.

The vintage

The 2016 vintage was mild for most of the year. Due to below average rainfall combined with a mild winter, the buds grew 15 days early. The month of August, with its warm days and cool nights, allowed the grapes to have a very good ripeness and a beautifully sensory composition. The Syrah harvest took place in mid-September.

Winemaking and ageing

The expressive fruit scents of this grape variety were obtained through a pre-fermentary maceration after de-stemming and pressing. Alcoholic fermentation lasted 10 days at a temperature of 28 degrees. 70% of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged in French oak barrels of one or two wines. The remaining 30% was left in stainless steel tanks and added to the blend. Bottling took place in September 2017.

Blend

Syrah

Characteristics and tasting tips for Antinori - La Braccesca : Achelo 2016

Tasting

Colour
This wine has an intense colour going from ruby to purple.

Nose
The nose unveils scents of red fruits like redcurrant and blackberries with spice notes.

Palate
Red fruit notes along with supple tannins give this wine balance. The long finish confirms the expression of a Tuscan wine.

Food and wine pairing

This Cortona red wine goes perfectly with grilled red meats and strong cheeses.

To serve

For the best tasting, serve between 14 and 16°C.

Storage

Antinori - La Braccesca : Achelo 2016 can be laid down for at least 10 years.