By I Balzini
White Label IGP Colli della Toscana Centrale

Wine Description
Balzini White Label retains local flavors, conveying, in the most sophisticated way possible, the complexities of the two grape varieties that comprise it. Classic Tuscan Sangiovese traits - cherry, bush, violet - embrace the well-defined and rounded taste of the Cabernet. Powerful, elegant, and refined wine. At its best with large game.

Terroir
Soil of Pliocene origin; sedimentary formations characterized by alternating strata of yellow sands and clay with a notable presence of marine fossils. Warm and temperate climate with average to elevated precipitation, cold winters, and warm to very warm summers, and particularly sunny late afternoons and sunsets given the precise western exposure. Southwestward exposure with a north-to-south orientation of the vine rows.

Vineyard Cultivation
Working of the soil alternated with a cover crop, along with a cordon de Royat training system. Crop thinning during the growing season and a final selection of the crop. During hand-picking, the bunches are placed in small packing cases and are selected on a belt as they are about to be pressed.

Production
Blend: Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: Two weeks of skin contact in stainless steel tanks between 79 and 83 degrees F (26-28 degrees C); complete malolactic fermentation
Aging: In small, medium-toasted French oak barrels for approximately 12 months, followed by at least 18 months of bottle aging before release

Tasting Notes
A very deep, intense ruby red. A great aromatic complexity with notes of red and black berries, particularly raspberries and black cherries, well fused with spicy and vanilla notes which recall both tobacco and chocolate. With age, balsamic aromas along with sensations of truffles. Of great structure and persistence, elegant and enveloping. The texture of the tannins is quite dense, characterized by a velvety suppleness. Very long on the finish with an intense and pleasurable aftertaste.

Enjoyment
Service: To be served in large crystal stemware between 61 and 65 degrees F (16-18 degrees C)
Pairings: Ideal with grilled meat, roasts, and medium-aged cheeses
[Information provided by I Balzini]
[Information is not vintage specific]

Wine: I Balzini Sangiovese Cabernet Sauvignon Colli della Toscana Centrale White Label 2018
Score/Rating: 93
Review Date: 08/17/2021
Reviewed By: James Suckling
Tasting Notes: A clear and well-crafted red with currant and dark-plum character. Some mahogany and cedar undertones with bark. It’s medium-bodied with firm, racy tannins and a fresh finish. [...]

Wine: I Balzini White Label 2018
Score/Rating: 90
Review Date: 07/13/2021