FORTEDIGA Cabernet - Syrah, IGT Maremma 2007 The Fortediga vineyards are situated north of Grosseto close to the village of Ribolla. This part of the Maremma, with its iron rich soils, has tremendous potential for red wines. The vineyard was planted in 2000 under the watchful eye of Alberto Antonini, who is one of the owners. The vineyard covers 50 hectares and is located 100-120 m above sea level, facing south-southwest. The soil is composed of iron-rich clay and limestone. The vines are cordon-trained and planted at a density of 7,050 per hectare, something that gives low yields per vine. 2007 began with a very mild winter with below average rainfall, which resulted in bud break about 10 days earlier than usual. Mild spring weather followed, with rains that came at the right time. September was perfect, with an abundance of sunlight accompanied by warm but not excessively hot weather and almost no rain, conditions that resulted in the slow, steady ripening of the grapes, with concentration of aromas and polyphenols, and no signs of over-ripening. The wine was fermented at 28°C in stainless steel for 7/8 days, and spent about 2 weeks on the skins. Half the blend was aged in new oak barriques for five months before being blended with the other half, which was aged in stainless steel. The wine was bottled in spring following the vintage. Deeply black-red in colour, this wine is aromatic and approachable, with warm red berry fruit, cocoa and spicy perfumes. On the palate it is rounded and generous, with ripe, well polished tannins and rich fruit supported by perfectly balanced acidity. "A full-bodied red loaded with super-ripe dark fruit, chocolate and spices.Considerable potential." Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate, Aug 2008 Vintage 2007 Grape varieties 30% Cabernet Franc 30% Cabernet Sauvignon 40% Syrah Region Maremma Winemaker Alberto Antonini Closure Cork Alcohol (ABV) 14 Price: £64.20 (Including VAT at 20%)