Basilica del Cortaccio Cabernet Sauvignon (2019)
SommeliAI Insights
A robust Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon with rich flavors of dark fruit, spice, and espresso.
About this wine
The 2019 Basilica del Cortaccio Cabernet Sauvignon from Tuscany opens with delicate aromas of cassis, tobacco, and cedar. On the palate, it offers mature plum, clove, and espresso flavors, supported by chewy tannins. The finish is long and pleasant. This wine is produced from a 4.2-hectare vineyard in Cafaggio, first planted in 1989, and is cultivated following organic farming principles. The vineyard's unique terroir contributes to the wine's distinctive character.
About the grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape variety that emerged in France during the 17th century, is renowned for its thick skins and resilience, making it adaptable to various climates. In Tuscany, Italy, this grape has been cultivated since at least the 18th century, often blended with native varieties to enhance wine complexity. The 2019 Calaggio Basilica del Cortaccio Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from a 4.2-hectare vineyard in Cafaggio, situated in the Conca d’Oro region of Panzano in Chianti. This vineyard, established in 1989, is dedicated exclusively to Cabernet Sauvignon and follows organic farming principles, reflecting the area's commitment to sustainable viticulture.
Quick facts
- 🍇 Basilica del Cortaccio is produced from a single 4.2-hectare vineyard planted exclusively with Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, showcasing the unique terroir of Panzano in Chianti.
- 🌞 The vineyard is situated at an altitude of 355 meters above sea level, benefiting from a south-west exposure that provides optimal sunlight for grape ripening.
- 🛢️ The wine undergoes 18 months of maturation in French oak barriques, followed by six months of bottle aging, contributing to its complex flavor profile.
- 🏅 The 2019 vintage received a 91-point rating from Wine Spectator, highlighting its enticing violet and black currant aromas, with accents of boysenberry, mint, and black pepper.
- 🌱 Basilica del Cortaccio is produced following organic farming principles, reflecting a commitment to sustainable viticulture.
Palate profile
Producer
Villa Cafaggio, originally known as 'Cahago' meaning 'enclosed, cultivated field,' dates back to 1408. Located in Panzano in Chianti, Italy, the estate has been owned by various entities, including the Benedictine monks of Siena and the Niccolini family of Florence. In the late 1960s, the Farkas family revitalized the neglected property by renovating the wine cellars and replanting vineyards and olive groves. Today, Villa Cafaggio spans approximately 60 hectares, with 30 hectares dedicated to specialized vineyards, producing esteemed Chianti Classico wines.
