Wide View

Argentiera

(Bolgheri)

A vineyard with a fantastic view. 150 to 200 metres (492 to 656 feet) above sea level - in good weather the view ranges from the magnificent slope to the sea and even to the Isle of Elba, Capraia, Gorgone, even to Corsica rising from the horizon. The vineyards are situated very close to the sea, but nevertheless high enough - ideal circumstances.

The wine estate was bought together by the Florentine traders Corrado and Marcello Fratini and Marchese Piero Antinori. It measures 72 hectares (178 acres) and on 60 (148) of them wine is grown. So Argentiera ranks among the biggest in the region. It lies at the southern border of the DOC region Bolgheri and makes for an impressive conclusion of the tour. The new Barricia in the middle of the vineyards is being built, a luxury hotel is being planned, too.

The vines are still very young and it is amazing how dense the Argentiera already tastes now. If the wine becomes as good as the view, it will hardly be beaten.

Bottle Samples:

red

Poggio Ai Ginepri Bolgheri Rosso 2005
50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Syrah, 25% Merlot, eight months in used, matured two and three year old barriques.
The characteristics of the Cabernet are dominant. Red fruit. In the mouth warm and well-balanced. Smooth with caramel and a bit of chocolate.

Villa Donoratico Bolgheri Rosso 2004
65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, matured for twelve months in new and used barriques.
Shining red. Fine aroma of forest berries. Some tobacco. Seems to be processed more sleekly and very modern. More "aristocratic" than the Poggio Ai Ginepri. Good wine for dinner.

Argentiera Bolgheri Superiore 2004
40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 14 months in barriques.
Darker and fuller. Chocolate and ripe cherry. Soft tannin, mature acidity. Warm and long. Needs time.
The name comes from "Argento" - because of the silver that was found on the estate grounds in former times.

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