POGGIO SAN POLO Brunello di Montalcino 2005 This property was bought and established as a rising star in Montalcino by Silvia Fertonani and her husband Mario Calzolari. Poggio San Polo won a double Gold Medal at the 2004 International Wine Challenge and the 1999 Brunello was awarded the Sangiovese trophy. The estate was sold in 2006 to Marilisa Allegrini, who is investing heavily in the wines and has brought in winemaker Nicola Biasi to build on the already impressive levels of quality. The estate covers 22 hectares of which 16 are planted with vines. Poggio San Polo‘s vineyards cover approximately 8 hectares planted between 1990 and 2000. They are situated at an altitude of 480 metres above sea level, facing south-southwest, on chalky, clay soils. The average age of the vines is 5-15 years and they are spur-cordon trained with a density of 7000 plants per hectare. Initially underrated because of the relatively cool growing season, the 2005 vintage is emerging as one characterised by elegant wines, with excellent acidity levels and the promise of good longevity. Vineyards with good exposure such as the Podernovi site ripened well although slightly later than usual due to light September rains. The grapes were hand picked into 17kg boxes in the first week of October. After gentle pressing, fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with temperatures reaching a maximum of 28-30°C, with a long maceration on the skins lasting 16-20 days. The wine was aged in French oak barriques (500 and 225 litres) for a period of 24 months, followed by at least 12 months in bottle before release. Intense ruby red with garnet lights. Intensely perfumed, with the characteristic violet and small red berries aromas followed by spiced plums and vanilla. Full-bodied and firm on the palate, with elegant, fine tannins and a lovely silky texture. SILVER - International Wine Challenge 2010 Vintage 2005 Grape varieties 100% Sangiovese Region Montalcino Winemaker Nicola Biasi Closure Cork Alcohol (ABV) 14.5% Acidity 5.63g/l Residual Sugar 1.4g/l Wine pH 3.47 Find this wine at www.winestore.co.uk Price: £49.57 (Including VAT at 20%)