L’ALBERELLO
THE WINE IS DEDICATED TO THE FIRST VINEYARD CULTIVATED WITH THE ALBERELLO SYSTEM IN BOLGHERI. THIS PLANTING SYSTEM, CALLED "SETTONCE," FEATURES EQUIDISTANT PLANTING THAT ALLOWS EACH VINE TO RECEIVE THE SAME AMOUNT OF SUNLIGHT AND COVER AN EQUAL PORTION OF THE SOIL.
The Alberello method was born as a response to extreme heat and drought conditions, as this training system is more resilient under similar circumstances. The specific arrangement of the vines allows Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes to be harvested simultaneously, creating a true blend. Co-fermentation of the two grape varieties imparts particular balsamic and spicy notes, which then gain depth and breadth with aging in barriques for up to 18 months.
Vintage 2022
IN A GROWING SEASON SUCH AS 2022, THE ALBERELLO VINEYARD STOOD OUT FOR ITS RESISTANCE TO OFTEN HOT & DRY WEATHER, FULLY EXPRESSING ITSELF IN THIS BALANCED, AUTHENTIC WINE.
The Climate
Our very hot, dry summer received relief from abundant rains from mid-August through the initial third of September, which arrived just in time to re-establish desired balance in the vines during the ripening process. The grapes were harvested during the third week of September, quality-selecting just the finest clusters of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
Vinification
The wine is a tribute the ancient head-pruned, albarello vine-training system, first introduced in 2004 to the Grattamacco growing area, with impressive results. The primary objective of using this method was to give the vines increased tolerance of high temperatures and dry conditions. The vineyard is organically cultivated and harvested exclusively by hand; the yield averages 1kg of grape per vine. The two Cabernets are picked together at the same time; fermentation of the blend starts spontaneously, and continues with lengthy macerations. Alberello matured 18 months in small oak barrels and was bottled on 20th June 2024.
Luca Marrone, Chief Winemaker
Composition
70% Cabernet Sauvignon
30% Cabernet Franc
Appearance
Intense ruby red
Alcohol
14.5%
