Balifico (1994)

About this wine

The 1994 Balifico from Castello di Volpaia is a mature Tuscan red that showcases the harmonious blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. With its deep ruby color, this wine presents aromas of blackberry and blueberry, complemented by subtle hints of oak and cinnamon. On the palate, it offers a smooth texture with well-integrated tannins, leading to a long finish with lingering notes of red fruit. Produced in the historic village of Volpaia, known for its winemaking heritage dating back to 1172, this wine reflects the rich history and tradition of the region.

About the grape

In the 1994 Castello di Volpaia Balifico, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon are blended to create a distinctive wine. Sangiovese, Tuscany's primary grape, is known for its bright acidity and red fruit flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon, originally from Bordeaux, brings deep color and structure. The Balifico vineyard, situated at elevations between 1,417 and 1,607 feet, provides ideal conditions for these grapes, with sandstone soils and south-southwest exposure enhancing their unique characteristics.

Quick facts

• 🍷 Balifico was among the early 'Super Tuscans,' a term for high-quality Tuscan wines that didn't conform to traditional regulations.
• ⛰️ The Balifico vineyard is situated at elevations between 1,417 and 1,607 feet above sea level, contributing to the wine's unique character.
• 🪨 The vineyard's soil is primarily sandstone, which imparts distinct mineral qualities to the wine.
• 🍇 The 1994 vintage of Balifico is a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing a harmonious mix of traditional and international grape varieties.
• 🏰 Castello di Volpaia, the producer of Balifico, is located in a medieval village with a rich history dating back to the 11th century.

Palate profile

Producer

Castello di Volpaia is a historic winery located in the medieval village of Volpaia, Tuscany, Italy. Established in the 11th century as a fortified village, Volpaia became a founding member of the Chianti League in 1250, contributing to the region's rich winemaking heritage. In the 1970s, Giovannella and Carlo Mascheroni Stianti revitalized the estate, integrating modern winemaking techniques while preserving the village's medieval architecture. Notably, they installed a unique 'wineduct' system, allowing wine to flow through stainless steel pipes beneath the village streets, connecting fermentation tanks to barrel cellars. Today, Castello di Volpaia is renowned for its organic Chianti Classico wines and commitment to sustainable viticulture.