2019 Bolgheri Superiore

The 2019 Argentiera is compact and savory with herbaceous layers as well as notes of menthol, toasted cedar, cassis, and fresh leather. Full-bodied and fresh, with beautiful taper and a lift of acidity on the finish, it delivers a rich concentration of flavors with blackberry, violets, and oak spice. It is long on the palate and deserves another year in cellar before enjoying over the following 15-20 years. It is no exaggeration to say this is truly one of the most beautiful and picturesque estates in the world, and I highly recommend a visit. Situated in the southern corner of Bolgheri, the wines are built around the 83 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon they have planted exclusively within the DOC. The Ventaglio is a cru concept from a single vineyard located two kilometers from the ocean, planted in 2010 to Cabernet Franc, which they have been bottling since the 2015 vintage. The vines here are planted in a full circle at the top of the hill around a single olive tree (thus the name “Ventaglio” meaning “fan”) and are trained in to keep ventilation flowing through the vineyard.

What a beauty and what an incredible leap forward to excellence. The 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Argentiera shows depth and wide shoulders with soft plushness and impeccable fruit. The full-bodied wine is dialed up on all levels from perfumes, intensity, mouthfeel, texture and freshness. This bottle should hold past the 20-year mark.

Deliciously ripe blackcurrant and bramble aromas. Soft and juicy, with shades of Margaret River in its purity and brightness. Very delicious, with an understated Tuscan twist of bitterness on the warm finish. (RH)