Nearco 2012 Sant'Animo DOC, Col D'Orcia

From celebrated Brunello producer Col D'Orcia, comes this unique Tuscan Red Blend. All the grapes from Col d'Orcia vineyards, 50 % Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Syrah, 5% Petit Verdot. During the harvest, selection is based on the balanced ripeness for all the varieties except the Syrah which is harvested at slight over-ripeness to increase the complexity of the wine. The varieties are fermented separately in stainless steel tanks with about 20 days of maceration at a controlled temperature. From there the wine went directly into barrel. The varieties and individual lots aged separately for 12 months in French oak barrels. In order to enhance the fruit, the Merlot was aged in large 500 liters French oak tonneaux. No further racking was done until the wine was blended. After bottling the wine aged in bottle for five months. Beverage Dynamics scored this 96 points saying " A lovely example of Tuscan winemaking, outside of the Sangiovese box. Half Merlot, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and a touch of Petit Verdot. Youthful ruby color in the glass, with aromas and flavors of red fruit, and hints of vanilla and spice. A long and elegant finish."