"Il Castagno" Cortona Syrah DOC 2011

750ml

Overview

Fabrizio Dionisio "Il Castagno" Cortona Syrah DOC 2011 is a remarkable expression of Syrah from one of Tuscany’s most esteemed wine-growing regions. Produced by the innovative Fabrizio Dionisio, this wine reflects a deep respect for terroir, combining the intensity of Syrah with the unique characteristics of Cortona's climate and soils. With a perfect balance of ripe fruit, spice, and subtle oak influence, "Il Castagno" 2011 is a wine of complexity and elegance, capable of evolving beautifully with age.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The wine undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing the fresh fruit characteristics of Syrah to shine through. The maceration process is carefully monitored to extract the desired color, flavor, and tannins.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged for 18 months in a mix of French oak barrels and larger casks. This aging period allows the Syrah to develop its complexity, with the oak imparting subtle notes of spice and vanilla while preserving the wine's fruit-forward character.
• Bottling: Bottled with minimal intervention to maintain its integrity, "Il Castagno" is unfiltered, ensuring it remains true to its natural expression.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby red with violet reflections, indicating its youthful character and aging potential.
• Aroma: The nose is intense and inviting, with aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, and black cherries, complemented by hints of white pepper, tobacco, and leather. Subtle earthy notes of forest floor and a touch of smokiness add further complexity.
• Palate: Full-bodied and rich, with a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins. Flavors of dark berries and ripe plums are layered with spices, black pepper, and a hint of chocolate. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, with firm yet integrated tannins providing structure.
• Finish: Long and persistent, with a lingering aftertaste of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of mineral complexity.

Food Pairing

"Il Castagno" Cortona Syrah DOC 2011 pairs beautifully with a variety of bold dishes. It is an excellent match for grilled meats, such as lamb, steak, or venison, as well as roasted game. The wine also complements hearty stews, braised meats, and rich pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces. Aged cheeses like Pecorino, Manchego, or aged Gouda also pair well with this wine.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 18–20°C (64–68°F) to allow its complex aromas and flavors to fully emerge.
• Decanting: Decanting for at least an hour is recommended, especially for younger bottles, to help open up the wine and soften its tannins.

Aging Potential

Fabrizio Dionisio "Il Castagno" Cortona Syrah DOC 2011 has excellent aging potential. The wine will continue to evolve and improve over the next 8–12 years, with its fruit flavors becoming more integrated with the oak and tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and dried fruit becoming more prominent. The tannins will soften, leading to a smoother, more complex mouthfeel as the wine matures.