Poggio alla Guardia (2008)

About this wine

The 2008 Poggio alla Guardia from Rocca di Frassinello is a harmonious blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese, showcasing the best of Tuscany's Maremma region. This wine presents a deep ruby red color with purple reflections. On the nose, it offers intense aromas of dark cherry, blueberry, and milk chocolate, complemented by hints of pepper and violet. The palate is full-bodied and elegant, featuring lush red and dark berry flavors, with well-integrated tannins and a pleasantly long, spicy finish. Notably, this wine is aged in cement tanks rather than barrels, preserving the purity of its fruit flavors and providing a fresh, immediate taste experience.

About the grape

The 2008 Rocca di Frassinello Poggio alla Guardia from Maremma Toscana is crafted from a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese grapes. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, both classic Bordeaux varieties, were introduced to the Maremma region to complement the native Sangiovese, the primary grape in Tuscany. This combination leverages the rich, fruity characteristics of Merlot, the structure and depth of Cabernet Sauvignon, and the bright acidity of Sangiovese. The collaboration between Italian and French winemaking traditions in this wine reflects the innovative spirit of the Rocca di Frassinello estate.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The Poggio alla Guardia Maremma Rocca di Frassinello 2008 is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese, showcasing a harmonious fusion of French and Italian grape varieties.
• 🌍 This wine hails from the Maremma Toscana region, an area that transitioned from an Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) to a Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) in 2011, reflecting its growing recognition in the wine world.
• 🤝 The Rocca di Frassinello winery, where this wine is produced, is a result of a unique Italian-French collaboration between Castellare di Castellina and Domaines Barons de Rothschild-Lafite, blending expertise from both countries.
• 🏛️ Renowned architect Renzo Piano designed the Rocca di Frassinello winery, creating a modern architectural masterpiece that integrates seamlessly with the Tuscan landscape.
• 🏺 The winery also houses an Etruscan museum, highlighting the region's ancient winemaking heritage and offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history.

Palate profile

Producer

Rocca di Frassinello, located in Gavorrano, Tuscany, Italy, was established in 2007 as a joint venture between Castellare di Castellina and Domaines Barons de Rothschild-Château Lafite. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, the winery's structure evokes the appearance of Maremma fortresses, complete with a distinctive red tower. The estate spans 500 hectares, with 83 hectares dedicated to vineyards cultivating Sangioveto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Vermentino. Notably, the winery houses an Etruscan museum, showcasing artifacts from the San Germano necropolis discovered on the property, highlighting the region's ancient winemaking heritage dating back nearly 3,000 years.