GAJA PIEVE DI SANTA RESTITUTA BRUNELLO SUGARILLE 2018

The name Sugarille refers to this Brunello di Montalcino s origins from the 4.5 hectare parish vineyard identified in a 1547 inventory. Situated on clay, limestone and galestro soils facing south, the 2018 vintage followed a mild, dry winter and rainy spring/summer that necessitated diligent anti-mildew treatments. Despite warm, dry conditions later, techniques like canopy management achieved optimal fruit set, though some late August hail reduced quantities. Northerly Tramontana winds in September allowed perfect ripening for the 100% Sangiovese grapes harvested between mid-September and early October. After three weeks of fermentation and maceration, the wine aged 24 months in oak followed by six months in concrete vats. The 2018 Sugarille shows an intensely concentrated ruby hue with aromas of cotton candy, pomegranate and tea rose transcending to a savory, silky-tannin palate in this classically-styled vineyard expression.