The cultivation of vines in the Bolgheri DOC area in Castagneto Carducci has very ancient origins, and evidence of its presence comes from the Etruscans and then from the Romans. More recent evidence dates back to the medieval period due to numerous monasteries and ecclesiastical domains. Starting from 1790, new plants were set up, especially near Bolgheri, thus increasing the wine production of the area’s wines. In 1816 the first experimental vineyards arose at the Capanne di Castiglioncello. The viticultural choices were made not only based on the terroir but above all based on the French wine culture with particular attention to the methods of winemaking and the vines used in France: to confirm this, the choices made by Count Guido Alberto and Mazzanti were directed precisely on French vines including Gamay, Cabernet and Syrah.
It is also important to note that a large part of the Bolgheri vineyard enters full production maturity after about 15 years. This means that the characteristics of the wines produced will only improve further. This is why the potential of Bolgheri wines is constantly growing. Although Bolgheri is universally an area known for its great reds, in reality, the most historical types of wines in the area are white and rosé wines, which continue to be produced with great success.
The Consortium comprises 60 producers whose vineyards represent over 97% of the total production in the area.
The territory of Bolgheri DOC coincides with the administrative boundaries of the Municipality of Castagneto Carducci, in the province of Livorno in Tuscany. This hilly area is mostly covered by woods, thus ensuring the maintenance of a complex ecosystem.
The vineyards grow on a flatter plateau that overlooks the sea with views of the Tuscan archipelago and Corsica. To the west of the wine-growing territory, you will find beaches and pine forests.
The location of the Bolgheri wine area allows it to have a unique and characteristic microclimate created by the hills that surround it. The winds from the sea cool the area for most of the year, leading to a colder temperature than other areas of the coast. This condition gives the wines greater freshness and elegance. At least 250 days a year, the frequent presence of winds also has another significant effect on plant health, as it limits the presence of humidity in the vineyards and therefore reduces the chance of disease. The exposure to the sun in the area is strengthened by the sea’s reflection and supports the growth of the vines.
To be considered DOC, Bolgheri Rosso (red wines) may be made entirely from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, or a blend of these wines, as well as up to 50 percent of Syrah or Sangiovese and up to 30 percent of Petit Verdot grapes.
Bolgheri reds are usually based on Cabernet (Sauvignon and Franc) and Merlot. The scents are characterized by ripe and sweet black fruit with notes of Mediterranean scrub, characteristic of the Bolgheri terroir.
As for the taste, the roundness and softness are striking, and the sweetness of the fruit is present with a long finish. Often there is also a savoury note that brings to mind the presence of the sea. Despite its intense structure, the wines are always balanced and harmonious.
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