Barone Ricasoli Torricella Toscana IGT

Description

Barone Ricasoli Torricella is one of only two white wines made at this historic Tuscan wine estate, the other is called Albia, they are both bottled as Toscana IGTs. They are generally more well-known for their Chianti and Super-Tuscan wines, although they also make a fantastic Vin Santo.

The Barones Ricasoli have have occupied Castello di Brolio for the 10 centuries since the business was founded in 1141. They lay claim to being the oldest winery in Italy, the fourth oldest business that remains in it original location and the second oldest in the wine industry. There are records of wine exports to Netherland and the UK in the 1600s. Baron Bettino Ricasoli (1809 – 1880) was politician and widely traveled entrepreneur. In 1872, after much study he sent a letter to Professor Cesare Studiati at the University of Pisa which contained the basic tenets for Chianti production.

Barone Ricasoli Torricella is a blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The Chardonnay grapes are sourced from from an estate vineyard located at 460m a.s.l. on sandy and pebbly soil whilst the Sauvignon Blanc comes from a vineyard situated at 230m a.s.l. on alluvial soils. After harvest the grapes undergo a period of cold maceration for a few hours in the absence of oxygen followed by fermentation n temperature controlled stainless steel vats. The Chardonnay portion is aged for 9 months in oak barrels with skin contact and the Sauvignon Blanc is aged for 9 months in stainless steel prior to blending and bottling. The blend is 75% Chardonnay and 25% Sauvignon.