Grammatica (1996)

About this wine

This 1996 Tuscan red offers a complex bouquet of ripe cherries, blackberries, and subtle hints of violet. On the palate, it presents a rich tapestry of flavors, including dark fruits, black pepper, and a touch of leather, reflecting its age and maturity. The wine's structure is well-balanced, with elegant tannins and a lingering finish that showcases its depth. The inclusion of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot adds layers of complexity, enhancing the traditional Sangiovese profile. This vintage stands as a testament to Tuscany's winemaking heritage, offering a memorable tasting experience.

About the grape

Sangiovese, the primary grape in Tuscany, has been cultivated since Roman times and is renowned for its ability to reflect the region's diverse terroirs. Cabernet Sauvignon, introduced to Tuscany in the 19th century, gained prominence in the 1970s with the rise of 'Super Tuscan' wines, where it was blended with Sangiovese to add structure and depth. Merlot, also introduced in the 19th century, is valued for its soft, fruity profile and is often blended with Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon to create balanced and approachable wines. In the 1996 Cerbaiona Grammatica, these varietals were likely combined to produce a wine that showcases the traditional character of Sangiovese enhanced by the richness of Merlot and the complexity of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1996 Grammatica Cerbaiona is a Tuscan red wine blending Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, showcasing the region's tradition of combining native and international grape varieties.
• 🏡 Cerbaiona, the producer of this wine, is renowned for its meticulous, artisanal farming and minimalist cellar approach, resulting in wines of depth and complexity.
• 🌄 The estate is situated in central Montalcino's Cerbaia contrada, producing balanced wines that combine richness with a Burgundian acid-driven structure.
• ☀️ The 1996 vintage in Tuscany was notable for its favorable weather conditions, leading to wines with excellent structure and aging potential.
• 🍷 The Grammatica Cerbaiona 1996 is a testament to the estate's commitment to quality, reflecting the unique terroir of Montalcino and the harmonious blend of grape varietals.

Palate profile

Producer

Cerbaiona, located in Montalcino, Italy, was established in 1977 by retired Alitalia pilot Diego Molinari and his wife, Nora. The estate quickly gained acclaim for its traditional Brunello di Montalcino wines, with the 2010 vintage receiving a perfect 100-point score from critic Antonio Galloni. In 2015, the Molinaris sold Cerbaiona to a group of investors led by American wine collector Gary Rieschel and estate manager Matthew Fioretti, who have since converted the vineyards to organic farming and undertaken extensive replanting to enhance vine density and clone selection. The winery's commitment to quality and tradition continues to make it one of the most sought-after producers in the region.