vitalongaTerra di Confine is traditionally made with Montepulciano and Merlot grapes. In 2013 we changed our vinification process to include a part of the Merlot grapes picked and dried. The idea of fan-drying a small percentage of the Merlot grapes is inspired by the ancient system called “Tuscan Governo”. Historically, this technique consisted of a slow re-fermentation of the wine after the racking, generated by the addition of a small amount of must of selected dried grapes. The concentrated juice of these grapes, pressed and fermented was then added to the rest of the wine which had already completed the primary fermentation. The wine obtained was then aged in closed barrels until the following spring. The slow re-fermentation promotes the development of a higher glycerine content, which gives the wine a softer and rounder taste.
Aged for 12 months in French oak barrel, Terra di Confine, inspired by the “Tuscan Governo” technique, marks an innovation and a new style that reflects the beauty of its native land. Comparing the different vintages in a vertical tasting: revealed the complexity of Montepulciano and the softness and roundness of Merlot. It shows beautiful hints of red fruit and the pleasantness of sweet and persistent tannins.
Terra di Confine 2013, James Suckling 92/100