Il Nero di Casanova 2021

Located in Tuscany, the vineyard that produces this Il Nero di Casanova cuvée stretches across the hills of Casanova, not far from Terricciola, in the province of Pisa. The Sangiovese vines benefit from a Mediterranean climate tempered by maritime influences, with sunny days and cooler nights. The soils are mainly composed of clay mixed with sand and pebbles, offering good drainage and regular ripening of the grapes, which allows for a precise aromatic profile and a balanced structure.

The grapes are harvested by hand, then destemmed and gently pressed before alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks with temperature control and skin maceration. Malolactic fermentation then takes place in French oak barrels, where the wine is aged to refine its structure and aromas. After aging, it is blended and rests in bottle before release, to ensure a silky texture and a faithful expression of Tuscan Sangiovese.

This wine reveals notes of black cherry, raspberry, and plum, enhanced by floral touches of violet and dried rose, as well as spicy accents of black pepper, liquorice, and clove. Subtle woody nuances evoke cedar and a hint of blond tobacco. On the palate, the texture is juicy and precise, supported by a lively acidity, fine yet present tannins, and a persistent finish that leaves an impression of freshness and balance.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!