WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
A delightful balsamic note intertwines with aromas of blackberry, blueberry and red flowers, flowing into elegant spices such as clove, pepper and anise, together with a hue of alpine herbs, helichrysum and leather. In the mouth the wine is full-bodied, powerful but elegant, with silky tannins that lead way to a long, balsamic aftertaste. Pair with meat, refined game dishes such as venison fillet or wild boar.
TASTING NOTES:
A new red with berries, green tobacco, chocolate, sage, and hints of fresh rosemary flower. Medium to full body with very fine tannins and a long and creamy finish. Complex. Single vineyard. 1,700 bottles made. From organically grown grapes. Give this at least four or five years, although it already displays remarkable balance and refinement.
- James Suckling, 97 pts.
Dark and cool on the nose, with a deep anchoring in flinty earth tones and crushed rocks, lifted by the indulgence of macerated berries. The palate projects that sense of cool and calm through more rich fruit and chocolate ganache. Fine-grained tannins have a gentle but firm grasp, while acid soars through a long finish. As substantial as a workhorse but drinks like dressage. The word that comes to mind is the Renaissance Italian "sprezzatura"-studied nonchalance. Drink 2034 and beyond.
- Wine Enthusiast, 97 pts.
This note refers to a back vintage that I did taste upon release but did not publish because the wine's official name had not been finalized. Made with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from an organic vineyard planted in 1994 at the front of the Il Borro property, the 2018 Valdarno di Sopra Cabernet Sauvignon Nitrito is a statement wine for collectors (with the high price tag to match). The vineyard with sandy soils is partially farmed by horse, and indeed the name Nitrito comes from "sound of the horse." Production is limited to 2,500 bottles. It shows ripe aromas of blackberry and blackcurrant, with pretty spice and vanilla at the back. The estate is allocated six limited-edition T5 Taransaud barrels, and they are used in this program. Yes, the wine aims high, but the quality is undoubtedly there. The tannins are silky and hydrated, and the fruit shines bright. This inaugural 2018 vintage is drinking beautifully at the moment.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 96 pts.
