Sette Ponti - Crognolo 2012

~ The Vineyards on the Sette Ponti estate are immaculate ~

Sette Ponti - named for the number of bridges one crosses on the road leading to the estate - produces two significant red wines,  Oreno and Crognolo.   The latter, named for the Cornus bushes that are abundant on the estate,  is a sophisticated Sangiovese.  Today, we're looking at the newest release from Sette Ponti,  the 2012 Crognolo.

"You can't live only of wine" ....says Antonio Moretti, the owner of Tenuta Sette Ponti, for he knows and respects that the Italian culture cannot be restricted only to the harvest of fruit; but of grains, cheese and produce that must be served alongside the wine.  For this reason among many more, he strives to produce wines of elegance that marry well at the table.

~ One of the Bridges on the Sette Ponti Road ~

The vineyards that give the fruit for Crognolo were planted in 1988 and have wonderful southerly exposure at an altitude of approximately 250 meters.  The vineyard is sand and clay and planted to a hearty density of almost 7,000 plants per hectare.  The vines struggle to find nutrients in the harder clay and the resulting fruit they bear is rich and complex.  Vinified in stainless steel and then refined in French barrique of varying age,  Crognolo is typically aged for about 18 months in barrel and another 6 months in bottle prior to release. 

~ Cantina Sette Ponti ~

The 2012 is practically 100% Sangiovese - with only the slightest dollop of Merlot.   It's a deep, dark garnet red in color with violet reflections and gives off wonderful aromas of Tuscan herbs and brush,  crushed cherries,  new leather and slight spice.  

On the palate, that elegance is achieved and paramount.  Polished and lively, the wine displays a medium bodied core of fruit that is plush and velvety.  Flavors follow the nose with precision and linger effortlessly on the palate.  Spicy pepper, vanilla, and a hint of mint appear on the finish.  This is more complex at this age than I may have expected and it's probably the best Crognolo I've ever enjoyed.  94 points, and a nice value around $28.

~ The 2012 is predominantly Sangiovese with a small addition of Merlot ~

Salute!