Le Difese Toscana IGT 2021

The 2021 vintage was good, although quantities were limited. After a somewhat rainy autumn with mild temperatures, the winter was very harsh, especially due to the arrival of "Burian", a polar disturbance which caused temperatures to drop. However, that allowed a good vegetative stop of the vines and helped to naturally eliminate most of the insects harmful to the vine. After a first timid beginning of spring which occurred towards the end of March, a rise in temperatures caused the buds of the more premature vines to swell (such as Sangiovese and Merlot). The continuation of spring was somewhat rainy until mid-May when the heat and the beautiful sunny days took over. The month of June was fairly regular while July was hot and dry. August continued with dry heat but fortunately on August 16th, a Balkan disturbance brought a few days of rain and brought temperatures back to the seasonal norm. This change was entirely providential, allowing not only the vines to recover but also to activate the phenolic ripening of the grapes well. The ripening was perfect and the harvest was able to take place calmly, without haste and only during the coolest times of the day. The hand-picked grapes reached a perfect ripeness without sugary excesses, with a beautiful pulp and well lignified pips. They were brought to the cellar in excellent quality conditions, well above any positive expectation.

Bright red with purple nuances. Respectable acidity and PH and a beautiful balance of musts that are well structured but harmonious and fruity. Blending wines with a non-invasive structure, a good balance in terms of acidity and density of the wine, combined with soft and well-integrated tannins. Beautiful spiciness. A pleasant palate of every day wine drinking, with juicy red fruits. A very good wine that is meant to be enjoyed young.

• A benchmark of quality at an affordable price
• A mini Super Tuscan—shares a pedigree with Sassicaia
• Matured for 8 months in oak barrels