Il Guardiano Poggio Mandorlo 2018

Poggio Mandorlo presents 'Il Guardiano,' a Supertuscan made exclusively in steel, in order to preserve the freshness and all the varietal components of the grape varieties at the base of the blend: Sangiovese and Merlot. We are in Tuscany, on the slopes of Mount Amiata, in the heart of Alta Maremma. Here, Poggio Mandorlo cultivates 12 hectares of vineyards planted to Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, varieties that benefit from volcanic soils and a mild, breezy climate. The first vintage produced of this label was 2009.

'Il Guardiano' Poggio Mandorlo is derived from a blend of Sangiovese (85 percent) and Merlot (15 percent), planted between 2001 and 2002 on soils consisting of sandstone marl and limestone, about 400 meters above sea level. Following manual harvesting and careful sorting, the grapes are transferred to the winery for alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled steel tanks, with 16-18 days of contact between the must and skins. The subsequent maturation period also takes place in steel for 18 months, followed by 4-6 months of bottle aging before release.

To the eye, Poggio Mandorlo 'Il Guardiano' shows a dark ruby red color. Intense and complex fruity and floral perceptions, accompanied by aromas of underbrush and herbs, while the palate is soft and balanced, supported by lively freshness and moderate tannic texture. Perfumed returns of great taste-olfactory correspondence. A bottle capable of highlighting the more refreshing and pure character of this blend, to be paired with various preparations based on meats of the territory, such as lamb or pappardelle with meat sauce.