Pian de’ Guardi Supertuscan 2004
Grape variety: Sangiovese
Region of production: Chianti Rufina, Toscana IGT
Alcohol: 14.5 %
Case quantity: 6
Vinification
Harvest is done by hand after a very attentive choice of the grapes in the vineyard. The grapes are then placed in small crates and placed in a special room for a short flash period which consents in obtaining grapes containing a high concentration of polyphenol together with a high grade of sugar. The grapes are then destemmed, pressed and vinificated using a delicate technique of processing. The maceration takes place in stainless steel vats and is periodically amalgamated so as to obtain the best colour and aroma. During this period that lasts 25 days the wine terminates its alcoholic fermentation at 28°. The wine is then transferred into new French oak barriques (Allier and Troncaise) for approximately twelve months. This is where the malo-lactic fermentation terminates.
Food combination
A very compelling wine with a sturdy structure - recommended for important occasions, appreciates accompaniment to rich traditional dishes and very tasty main dishes.
How to serve
Open the bottle from 20 minutes to three hours before drinking (decant if possible) and serve at a temperature of 18/20°.
Fattoria il Lago Pian de Guardi 2004
This immediately struck me as Tuscany’s answer to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, or perhaps more appropriately Amarone della Valpolicella, for the Sangiovese grapes have been lightly dried in a process that the Italians called appassimento, which is used in the Veneto for Amarone. It is very unusual to find Sangiovese grapes treated in this way, but it works. The nose is not very expressive, but the palate has a mouthfilling warmth, with a firm tannin finish. The wine is rounded and rich; it would benefit from decanting and would go splendidly with a hearty winter casserole.
