2017 Monsanto - Nemo Toscana Rosso IGT (750ml)
The 2017 Nemo Toscana Rosso IGT by Castello di Monsanto is a single‑vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon crafted exclusively from grapes grown in the historic Il Mulino plot in Barberino Val d’Elsa. Originally planted in the mid‑1970s when international varieties faced skepticism in central Tuscany, the estate maintains its original terroir‑driven philosophy under current leadership.
The fruit is hand‑harvested and fermented in temperature‑controlled, truncated conical steel vats. The winery applies the délestage (rack and return) technique, followed by approximately three weeks of maceration to extract color and stabilize the structure. Barrel aging spans roughly 18 months in 500‑liter French oak tonneaux, which preserves bright acidity while allowing slow integration of oxygen.
The 2017 growing cycle featured a cooler winter that limited early disease pressure, sufficient spring moisture, and a moderately hot, dry summer that promoted even ripening without overconcentration. Aromatically, the wine presents blue flower, black olive, toasted spice, and subtle campfire ash. The palate shows the firmer, tighter tannic architecture characteristic of the vintage, suggesting several years of cellar time will further meld the fruit and soften the finish.
Suggested pairings:
- Roasted red meats and grilled game
- Rich, slow‑cooked stews