Ripa delle More, Castello Vicchiomaggio, IGT Toscana

The historical origins of Castello Vicchiomaggio can be traced back to the 5th century with period documents confirming the production of wine at that time. The present owners, the Matta family, acquired the property in 1964 and restored it back to its former splendour. The estate, with 150 ha, is one of the largest in the area, and of these, 32 ha are dedicated to the vine.

Castello Vicchiomaggio produces several styles of wine, from the traditional to the innovative. In order to achieve this, the estate has been carefully classified according to its soil type and exposure. Each wine is named after a specific vineyard area. All production and winemaking is supervised by John Matta who studied viticulture and oenology. The estate is totally family run, thus ensuring a unique and identifiable style of wine.
Vicchiomaggio is consistently classified amongst Italy's top estates and in 2002 John Matta was awarded the Tasca d'Almerita Trophy for "Best Italian Producer of the Year". This was followed by the IWSC 2005 accolade for Italian Wine Producer Of The Year with the 2003 La Prima winning the Carpineto Trophy For Best Sangiovese in the same competition. A unique achievement for an Englishman!

The 2004 FSM Merlot was awarded "3 Bicchieri" in the 2008 edition of the Gambero Rosso

Grapes: 50% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot from the Ripa delle More vineyard

Note: The name means "Hill of the Blackberries". Matured in French oak barriques for 18-24 months. The most full bodied wine in the Vicchiomaggio range. All the vines are over 20 years old and are strictly pruned, ensuring that yields are extremely low. A big yet elegant wine with pepper and spices, sweet fruit and vanilla. Full bodied and vibrant when released, will mature over many years and become deep and complex.. Limited production ensures that this wine will always be a much sought rarity.

Serve: At room temperature with roast red meats, game and spicy stews. Open the bottle 1 to 2 hours before pouring.

Taste: A powerful yet elegant wine with pepper, spices, sweet Morello cherry fruit and vanilla with a smooth, mouth filling texture. A very complete wine with a wonderfully, long and fine finish.