L’ALBERELLO
THE WINE IS DEDICATED TO THE FIRST VINEYARD CULTIVATED WITH THE ALBERELLO SYSTEM IN BOLGHERI. THIS PLANTING SYSTEM, CALLED "SETTONCE," FEATURES EQUIDISTANT PLANTING THAT ALLOWS EACH VINE TO RECEIVE THE SAME AMOUNT OF SUNLIGHT AND COVER AN EQUAL PORTION OF THE SOIL.
The Alberello method was born as a response to extreme heat and drought conditions, as this training system is more resilient under similar circumstances. The specific arrangement of the vines allows Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes to be harvested simultaneously, creating a true blend. Co-fermentation of the two grape varieties imparts particular balsamic and spicy notes, which then gain depth and breadth with aging in barriques for up to 18 months.
Vintage 2019
THE PERFECT INTEGRITY OF THE GRAPES GAVE REFINED BALSAMICITY AND EXTRACTIVE RICHNESS, TYPICAL OF THE BEST VINTAGES OF THIS CRU.
The Climate
Summer weather characterized by intense heat spikes was balanced by significant rains in late July that restored optimal conditions for grape veraison. The late August-early September rains were followed by breezy and sunny weather with good temperature ranges that accelerated ripening. The Alberello harvest took place on September 23 with the selection of the best bunches of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
Vinification
This wine is a tribute to the ancient head-pruned, alberello vinetraining system, first introduced in 2004 to the Grattamacco growing area, with impressive results. The primary objective of using this method was to give the vines increased tolerance of high temperatures and dry conditions. The vineyard is organically cultivated and harvested exclusively by hand; the yield averages 1kg of grapes per vine. The two Cabernets are picked together at the same time; fermentation of the blend starts spontaneously, and continues with lengthy macerations. Alberello matured 18 months in small oak barrels and was bottled on September, 8th 2021.
Luca Marrone, Chief Winemaker
Composition
70% Cabernet Sauvignon
30% Cabernet Franc
Appearance
Intense ruby red
Alcohol
14,5%
