Sommelier Fabrice Constantin and Sommelier Alexis Morgan Bell Wine Recommendation

Vintage: 2012

HARVEST NOTE
The climate for the 2012 vintage was rather special. Autumn and winter were long and cold, to the point that at the end of January the Bolgheri hills were covered with snow. Bolgheri experienced a cold, yet rainless fall and winter, which was not the case for other parts of Tuscany. Cold temperatures were favorable for the halting of the vegetative growth and the natural elimination of some pests of the vine. The spring started with a slight delay, causing the vines to bud 10 - 15 days later than the seasonal average. From the beginning of May, however, the temperatures rose and accelerated the arrival of summer. The summer was very hot, with sunny days and temperatures above the seasonal average. Although some have likened the summer of 2012 to that of 2003, the difference lies in the considerable fluctuations in temperature between night and day which prevented water stress in plants in 2012. During the fruit set period, strong sea winds were partially responsible for a production loss of about 10%. The summer was long, with very high daytime temperatures requiring an early harvest of the Merlot as well as part of the Cabernet.

TASTING NOTE
Intense, concentrated and deep ruby-red, this wine offers complex aromas of red and black fruits, with spice and wild herb notes. In the mouth, the rich flavors are dense, yet elegant, harmonious and graceful, with sweet but firm tannins. With a long finish, this wine's depth and structure will ensure an extraordinary evolution in bottle.

FOOD PAIRING
Pair with rich flavors like braised meats, osso bucco and aged, hard cheeses.

TECHNICAL DATA

GRAPES: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc

APPELLATION: Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC

PH: 3.4

ACIDITY: 5.85 g/l

ABV: 13.5%

AGING: Aged in French oak barrels for 24 months

MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: Yes