2017 Monsanto - Nemo Toscana Rosso IGT (750ml)

Producer

Castello di Monsanto sits in Barberino Val d'Elsa, where in the mid-1970s Fabrizio Bianchi took the bold step of planting Cabernet Sauvignon in the estate's Il Mulino vineyard, at a time when using international varieties in central Tuscany was still hotly debated. The first vintage arrived in 1982, and the wine took its name from the saying "Nemo propheta in patria," no man is a prophet in his own land, a nod to the estate's pioneering spirit. Today the winery continues under second generation owner Laura Bianchi, who has kept faith with that original vision of place over variety.

Growing and Production

Nemo is made entirely from Cabernet Sauvignon grown in the single Il Mulino vineyard, hand harvested and fermented in temperature controlled, truncated conical steel vats using the délestage method, with roughly three weeks of maceration. The wine then ages about 18 months in 500 liter French oak tonneaux. The 2017 season brought a cold winter that helped protect the vines from disease, followed by spring rains that built up water reserves ahead of a moderately hot, dry summer.

Tasting Notes

This vintage shows delicate aromas of blue flower, black olive, spice, and campfire ash, with a smooth, inviting bouquet. The palate carries some of the firmer, tighter tannic structure typical of the 2017 vintage, suggesting further patience will reward the drinker. It pairs well with roasted red meats, game, or a rich, slow cooked stew.