Super Tuscan "Excelsus Toscana IGT", Castello Banfi, Tuscany, IT, 2019 (Mariani Family)

94pts James Suckling 

Black currants, plum skins, toasted spices, cedar and nut shell on the nose. Full and layered with firm tannins and a rich dark fruit character. Mineral too, with notes of sea shell and crushed stones. Vivid acidity. Long and linear finish.

Winemaker's Notes

A complex bouquet with aromas of cassis, ripe fruit, licorice and tobacco leads to a powerful, full-bodied wine with explosive dark fruit and rich earthy undertones. Ideal for pairing with red meat and hearty cheeses. 

The Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are vinified separately with a maceration of between 8 and 18 days. Alcoholic fermentation is followed by malolactic fermentation in barriques in temperature controlled areas. For the fi rst 12-14 months, the varieties age separately in French oak barriques. They are then blended and aged as a cuvée for an additional 8 to 10 months. Bottle-aging follows for at least 6 months. The wine is left unfi ltered to retain its subtle nuances of plum, black currant and cedar.