I Quadri 2008

This Swiss-owned estate continues to be among the most reliable in the region. Vallocaia, where the property is situated, is in the subzone of Argiano, one of the best-known, high-quality districts of the Montepulciano denomination. Under the technical and agronomical direction of Giovanni Capuano, an adopted son of Montepulciano who was in fact born in Campania, it maintains very high standards of quality, with constant improvements with regard to the small details.
This vintage of the “I Quadri” special 5ELECTion is of particular interest. It is a Sangiovese that reflects the characteristics of the Argiano zone: richly structured wines that have good ageing potential but whose tannins are never overwhelming. A handsome, dense ruby colour greets the taster, consistent all the way to the rim. The really intense and fragrant nose is still youthful, with its notes of cherries and violets as well as a hint of peach. The palate is typical, governed as it is by the acid/tannic vein that one finds in Sangioveses from Montepulciano. The youthful tannins are devoid of bitter connotations, a sign of good vineyard husbandry and limited yields. The progression of fruit on the palate is attractive, thanks to the glycerine and alcohol which give a substantial, broad and persistent mouth-feel. It is still slightly backward, as befits the vintage.