Winemaker Notes
During harvest, the Cabernet Franc grapes were picked throughout a three-week window on different blocks just a few kilometers apart — a representation of the Tenuta di Arceno estate’s diverse micro-climate and soil. This beautifully complex pure Cabernet Franc wine expresses the herbal signature of this variety, with aromas of ripe plums, sweet mint, sage and thyme. The luscious palate gives way to cherries, wild strawberries and licorice followed by hints of cedar and toast. The finish lingers with undertones of white pepper and truffle. A truly elegant wine to be enjoyed for years to come.
Professional Ratings
-
Decanter
Today covering almost 17 hectares, the estate's Cabernet Franc is subject to a broad as much as a severe selection, which has improved the wines. It was sourced from a single plot in 2008, while this 2016 comes from 10 different plots. The French clones (326 - 327) can be problematic according to winemaker Pierre Seillan: 'With too high yields, too much herbal character is achieved, while with a tight leaf canopy it wouldn't ripen properly'. Cabernet Franc is not new to producing outstanding wines in Tuscany, and Seillant is not new to managing this grape variety in pursuit of excellence. Crimson in colour, it has a super restrained Cab Franc character of cassis and eucalyptus, with an almost citrus flavour in depth and a sweet, toasty finish of milk chocolate, liquorice and cacao powder. This 2016 is sleek and concentrated, with ripe, refined tannins and refreshing acidity. A full and tense wine.
-
James Suckling
A rich, powerful super Tuscan that reminds me of some of the cult wines of Napa. Yet, there’s underlying freshness and brightness to the blackberry, mineral, stone and floral character. Extremely rich and opulent, but shows tension and focus. Better after 2022.
Legendary in Italy for its Renaissance art and striking landscape, Tuscany is also home to many of the country’s best red wines. Sangiovese reigns supreme here, as either the single varietal, or a dominant player, in almost all of Tuscany’s best.
A remarkable Chianti, named for its region of origin, will have a bright acidity, supple tannins and plenty of cherry fruit character. From the hills and valleys surrounding the medieval village of Montalcino, come the distinguished and age-worthy wines based on Brunello (Sangiovese). Earning global acclaim since the 1970s, the Tuscan Blends are composed solely of international grape varieties or a mix of international and Sangiovese. The wine called Vine Nobile di Montepulciano, composed of Prognolo Gentile (Sangiovese) and is recognized both for finesse and power.