
Appodiato di Montepulciano Molin Vecchio – I.G.T. Toscana 2012
Vineyard location
Southern exposure on rolling hillsides.
Vineyard age
Planted in 1995 at a density of 2.80×0.8 meters (~9×3 ft), equivalent to 4,464 vines/ha (1,860/ac).
Trellising method
Trained to a bilateral cordon with vertical shoot positioning.
Grapes
Sangiovese Clone A548 80%, Cabernet Sauvignon clone CL15 10% and Syrah clone 470 10%, all on 420A rootstock. Other grapes present in the vineyard but not utilized are Canaiolo, Colorino and Merlot.
The 2012 Vintage
Is characterized by wines of excellent quality, with high polyphenols and alcohol levels. These characteristics have contributed to well-balanced wines with a flavor profile particularly true to variety and to its territory, ideal for a very long cellaring.
Harvest
September 14th and 15th.
Grape at harvest
Sugar 24.58%, total acidity 6.15 per thousand, ph 3.20.
Vinification
Small lot fermentation at 25-30°C (77-86°F) using indigenous (wild) yeast. Fifteen day maceration with frequent aerations, pump-overs and punch-downs of the cap for optimum polyphenol extraction.
Malolactic fermentation
Started during the primary fermentation it continued for 10 days after being drawn off the lees.
Aging
It was placed in small (lt.225) new French and American oak barrels for 12 months.
Bottling
To protect the vineyard’s character this wine was racked then bottled unfiltered.
Production
12,000 bottles.
Bottle age
In our temperature controlled cellar for over 45 months years.
Color
Dark, deep, blackish-ruby hue.
Bouquet
Bold and intense, with blackberries and licorice, black pepper and a hint of vanilla.
Taste
Full-bodied palate with exceptional red fruit intensity and spice. Big structured with well integrated, supple tannins and a long, persistent finish.
Analytical data at the time of bottling
Alcohol 13.76%, total acidity 5.1 per thousand, color 14.71, sugar 1.10 per thousand, polyphenols 3785 mg/l, dry extract 32.3 g/l.
Serving temperature
17-19°C, 63-66°F.
Gastronomy
Best served with roasts.