Il Castellaccio Bolgheri Superiore 2022

Produced by Il Castellaccio in the hills overlooking Castagneto Carducci, the Bolgheri Superiore is a striking expression of Cabernet Franc from one of the appellation's boutique estates. Situated above the Tyrrhenian coast, the estate benefits from Bolgheri's unique combination of Mediterranean sunshine, cooling sea breezes and mineral-rich soils, conditions that have made the region one of the world's finest homes for Bordeaux varieties. While Bolgheri is internationally renowned for its Cabernet-based wines, Il Castellaccio has chosen Cabernet Franc as its flagship variety, producing small quantities of wines that highlight the grape's remarkable elegance, aromatic complexity and sense of place. The warm, dry 2022 vintage yielded small, concentrated berries while the maritime climate preserved freshness, resulting in a wine of exceptional purity and balance.

Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, the wine is fermented with great care before maturing in French oak barrels, allowing its structure and aromatic complexity to develop without overshadowing the fruit. It displays an expressive bouquet of blackcurrant, wild blackberry and dark plum, intertwined with violet, graphite, crushed herbs, cedar, tobacco leaf, liquorice and subtle spice. The palate is refined yet powerful, with beautifully ripe tannins, vibrant acidity and the distinctive mineral freshness that defines the finest Bolgheri Cabernet Franc. Concentrated but never heavy, it finishes with remarkable length and precision. Although already approachable, it possesses the balance and structure to develop gracefully over the next fifteen years, pairing superbly with grilled beef, roast lamb, venison, porcini mushrooms and mature Pecorino.