GUADO AL MELO WINERY

In the past the Tuscan Maremma was marshy and malaria-infested.  After the great reclamation of 1700 it became a mediterranean garden dominated by olive trees, vines and maritime pines and cypresses.  The area of Bolgheri boasts a long grape growing history, but only during the latter half of the 20th century did the area witness a true winemaking Renaissance, a rebirth sparked by new premium-quality wine production as the result of state-of-the-art winemaking techniques and of the introduction of French varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot).  DOC Bolgheri extends from the Municipality of Castagneto Carducci (LI) along the Tyrrhene Coast, in the countryside between the hills and the sea, in territory rich in history and traditions.  Guado al Melo is located in the heart of the Bolgheri DOC zone.  With generations of rich viticultural experience, the family manages their wine estate in accord with the principles of sustainable and natural agriculture, and their wines are made with sound respect for tradition, avoiding the additives and manipulation that can harm the natural qualities of the grapes.  The name Guado al Melo (Ford at the Apple Tree) stretches far back in time, since in some long past period an apple tree identified a safe spot to cross the Fossa di Bolgheri stream, which marks the northern boundary of the farm estate.

The climate is classically Mediterranean: sunny, with mild winters, dry summers, and modest amounts of rain.  Bolgheri does enjoy somewhat different conditions than its neighbors, however, in that it has significant temperature ranges between day and night.  This difference, along with soils that are generally low in clay content, means that the Bolgheri wines are elegant and fragrant.  The vineyards are planted at a very high density and are trained to spurred cordon.  The Rosso is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (80%) and Merlot (20%) planted at an altitude of 50 meters above sea level. The vineyards of this beautiful coastline and the warm Mediterranean climate, tempered by sea breezes, give birth to a fragrant white wine with notes of freshness, pleasant on every occasion. Vermentino is a historical variety of our territory, documented in Guado al Melo vineyards at least since the early nineteenth century.The label is inspired by the territory: in spring it is common to see small white egrets that move gracefully in the vineyards in search of food. This is in a beautiful golden yellow, to remember the color of the wine.

L’AIRONE IGT

Grape: Vermentino

Vinification and Maturation: The clusters are very lightly pressed, and overnight, the must is then cold-settled naturally. Vinified without correctives or additives which would alter the original characteristics of the grapes.

Tasting Notes:

Color: Bright, straw yellow

Bouquet: White fruit, grapefruit and tropical fruits

Flavor: Fresh and lively on the palate with hints of salinity

Serving Suggestions: Fried fish, seafood salads, pasta with clams, grilled prawns

BOLGHERI DOC ROSSO RUTE

Vinification and Maturation:

After a September harvest, the vinification is temperature controlled in steel tanks and then the wine ages for 12 months in small oak barrels (10% of which are new).  After bottling, the wine will rest for another 6 months before being brought to market.

Tasting Notes:

Color: Ruby red with violet highlights

Bouquet: Elegant with peppery spice and red fruit, distinctly cherry, and mint

Flavor: Smooth mouth feel, warm with excellent length and balanced structure

Serving Suggestions: Pastas, red meat and stews, semi-aged cheeses

BACCO IN TOSCANA IGT

Vinification and Maturation:

After harvesting in September, this blend of Sangiovese and Syrah is temperature controlled in steel tanks and then the wine ages for 12 months in small oak barrels (10% of which are new).  After bottling, the wine will rest for another 3 months before being brought to market.

Tasting Notes:

Color: Deep, rich purple

Bouquet: Intense, warm, dark fruit and earthy spice

Flavor: Lively acidity supports a long lasting progression of flavor with dense tannins classic of the Sangiovese grape

Serving Suggestions: Cold and smoked meats, roast or grilled meat

Vinification and Maturation:

Each parcel is harvested and fermented separately. Aging takes place for 24 months in old oak barrels on the lees, with weekly stirring. It is clarified with some racking (not filtered). Then, there is an aging in bottle for at least one year, in the best conditions of storage.

Tasting Notes:

Color: Deep red

Bouquet: Berry, green peppercorn and ginger.

Flavor: A balanced palate delivers ripe black currant, licorice, and black pepper — bold and structured.

Serving Suggestions: Beef, pasta, lamb, veal, game