Montepeloso A Quo 2013

Tuscany, Italy Varietal Notes: 40-45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Montepulciano, and the balance Sangiovese, Marselan and Alicante Bouschet Biodynamic: Practicing Vineyard: From Montepeloso's vineyards in the Suvereto, Maremma, Tuscany. Orientation: 50-100m in elevation. Soil: Lime-rich petrified clay and silex. Viticulture: Hand-harvested. Average yields are less than 40HL per hectare. Vinification: Grapes are 100% destemmed. Unfiltered. Aging: Four months in second passage barriques. Production: about 2,500 cases. RATINGS Publication: Wine advocate Rating: 92 A little oaky on first nose, the 2013 A Quo is a robust red blend based primarily on Montepulciano, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. The quality of the primary fruit is succulent, plump and rich. So are the background aromas of cinnamon, vanilla bean and toasted almond. This was a good vintage across Tuscany. The finish is exceedingly rich and supple with firmly yielding tannins. Give this wine a year or two to find greater harmony in the bottle. Those oak notes still need to integrate. Publication: James Suckling Rating: 92 A firm and silky red with blueberry and blackberry character, a medium body and firm tannins. A dense wine that also shows vivid acidity. Drink or hold.