Podere Il Castellaccio Bolgheri Rosso Superiore 2021

Podere Il Castellaccio, Bolgheri in balance

In this Bolgheri Rosso Superiore 2021, Cabernet Franc meets an ancient Tuscan variety, Pugnitello, in a blend led by the former. I love the precision of this composition and its aging shared between wood and amphorae: two choices that accompany a wine with expressive red fruit, supple tannins and lively acidity. A bottle to take the time to listen to, rather than open in the middle of the noise.

On the heights of Segalari, the terroir of Bolgheri

Podere Il Castellaccio is located in Bolgheri, on the Segalari hill. As early as the 1960s, Alessandro Scappini's grandfather had chosen this site, convinced of its potential. Today, Alessandro revives the indigenous vines planted by his ancestor and produces wines that fit into the Tuscan landscape. This Bolgheri Rosso Superiore is designated DOC Bolgheri Superiore; its grapes come from old vines rooted in soils rich in schist and marl. Cultivation follows the principles of organic farming.

The blend combines 95% Cabernet Franc and 5% Pugnitello. The latter brings here the presence of a historic Tuscan grape alongside a French variety. In the cellar, fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with indigenous yeasts and at controlled temperature. Maceration with the skins lasts 45 to 50 days. The wine then spends twelve months in French oak barrels, then twelve months in amphorae; six additional months in bottle precede its release to the market. This long and detailed process gives the tasting several concrete reference points: the fruit, the spices and the nuances linked to aging.

The color is ruby red. On the nose, I find cherries, raspberries and a touch of blackberry, mingled with delicate notes of vanilla and an assortment of spices. On the palate, the tannins are velvety and supple; the vibrant acidity gives momentum to a texture described as concentrated. The whole combines intensity and finesse, without the fruit disappearing behind the oak. Take the time to let it breathe in the glass: the notes announced invite you to follow the passage from red fruit to spices, then to rediscover freshness on the palate.

At the table, to extend Tuscany

I would serve it with grilled meat, roast lamb or a braised dish whose richness will match its tannins without covering its fruit. It will also accompany a simple Tuscan table, when one takes the time to share the meal rather than multiply the dishes. Serve it at a dinner where everyone can return to the glass and observe its balance between concentration and acidity. If you are looking for a Bolgheri red carried by Cabernet Franc, with a touch of Pugnitello and two-stage aging, this 2021 deserves a place at the table.