Ripe at the Convent 2016
Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG
"On the highest hills of this estate, which already produced wines in 1800, a small vineyard of
Sangiovese that gives us extraordinary emotions. Its altitude of 450 meters, exposure to the hot afternoon sun, i
Gallic soils and healthy Mediterranean winds give this Brunello reserve extreme elegance, personality and
longevity".
Climate trend
2016 was a challenging, long year, with many stresses, but ultimately one of the best ever. The winter
particularly mild caused budding slightly earlier than normal: you could see the
buds open already at the end of March; on the other hand the spring was cool and with several rains, culminating with a
June very little summery with temperatures below the averages for the period. A temperate spring therefore, which has
determined a progressive slowdown of the vegetative phases and consequently a delay in flowering and the following one
veraison. The hot summer but without excesses, with some providential rains in August, meant that the vines coped
the last phase of maturation in an excellent physiological state and with perfectly healthy grapes. Then, the last ten days of
September full of sun, temperature variations between day and night, fresh and dry north wind with humidity levels
very low, allowed us to complete a punctual, accurate harvest, with fragrant, very ripe grapes,
healthy, perfectly balanced.
Winemaking and maturation
The Ripe al Convento vineyard, where the Sangiovese grapes come from, is located at an altitude of 450 meters above sea level. and it's
characterized by shale and marly soils, with a southern exposure. The grapes were harvested manually afterwards
a first careful selection in the vineyard. Upon arrival in the cellar they were subjected to further scrupulous checks, with
manual sorting of each bean. The fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature
frequent pumping over, especially during the early stages, to obtain a good extraction of the coloring and mineral components
structure. The subsequent period of maturation in wood allowed for excellent stability and an increase in quality
aromatic and structural complexity. Ripe al Convento is ready to be placed on the market 6 years after the harvest
only after further refinement in the bottle.
Tasting notes
Ripe al Convento 2016 has a splendid, intense and brilliant ruby red color with garnet reflections on the edge. The bouquet is
wonderfully and elegantly intense with hints ranging from small fruits to red and black berries, recalling the
blackcurrant, blueberry, morello cherry and blackberry with floral and tertiary notes. Over time the tertiary scents are the ones that take on
windward, recalling tobacco, black tea leaves, leather and the roasting of coffee to then finish with a delicate
spiciness reminiscent of nutmeg, black and white pepper. The tannin is also beautifully integrated and velvety. Pretty
the acid-alcoholic component. The finish is extremely long and persistent.