Denomination: I.G.T. Rosso Toscana (Tassinaia) Producer: Castello del Terriccio First vintage: 1992 Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Analytical data: Alcohol degree: 14.50%. Soil type: The soils where the vineyards are located are characterised by various and composite morphologies with a strong presence of stones and fossils; the altitude is between 100 and 300 metres above sea level, with south/south-west exposure.
Training system: spurred cordon Planting density: 5,600 vines/Ha. for old vineyards; 6,250 vines/Ha. for new vineyards
Climatic trend: Autumn began with rain and temperatures above the seasonal norm, while December and January were very cold months with freezing day and night temperatures accentuated by tramontana winds and a lack of rain. Spring was characterised by dry weather. Summer arrived as early as mid-May with temperatures above the seasonal average, as did the summer months. The veraison began in mid-July and the climatic trend brought forward the ripening times of the grapes. Harvesting began early (at the end of August for the Merlot grapes) and continued for the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes until the end of September. Healthy, crisp and well ripened grapes resulted in musts that were not overly structured, characterised by good acidity and a higher alcohol content than in other vintages. higher than in other vintages.
Harvest period: The harvest began at the end of August and was characterised by characterised by healthy grapes and perfect veraison.
Vinification notes: Extremely soft pressing and destemming. Fermentation in steel vats at a controlled temperature, with maceration of the grapes for about 9-12 days for the Merlot and 12-15 days for the Cabernet. During fermentation subsequent pumping over and délestages.
Ageing: Ageing takes place in separate masses for each variety, in French oak tonneaux of second and third passage for 16 months. After being blended and bottled it rests a further 12 months in bottle before being marketed.