At a glance

Producer

Castello dei Rampolla

Region

Toscana Rosso IGT, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (90%), Sangiovese (5%), Merlot (5%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$70-$110

Tasting profile

Deep ruby color, aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum, dark chocolate, and hints of Mediterranean herbs with subtle cedar oak notes.

Evolution: Will evolve towards more tertiary aromas such as leather, tobacco, graphite, and forest floor from 2028 onwards.

At peak: Complex bouquet with velvety tannins, perfect integration of fruit and oak, and a long elegant finish.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, medium-plus acidity providing freshness

Tannins

Firm, fine-grained and well-structured

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Excellent aging potential of 20-25+ years due to high-quality Cabernet focus, balanced by indigenous Sangiovese and Merlot

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2053

Optimal window

2024 to 2056

Current status

Approaching youthful maturity; beginning complexity and integration of tannins and fruit

Current condition

The wine shows youthful vibrant dark fruit, well-integrated oak, firm tannins, and balanced acidity. Will benefit from additional cellaring.

The 2016 vintage was a very good year in Tuscany, yielding ripe, structured Cabernet Sauvignon with balanced acidity and robust tannins. Combined with organic farming and the blend’s natural complexity, this wine can age gracefully for two decades or more. Peak drinking from about 12 years after vintage is optimal for full varietal expression and harmonious secondary development.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled red meats, game dishes, aged cheeses (e.g., Pecorino Toscano), rich mushroom risotto, and hearty Tuscan stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and open the complex bouquet, especially for wines younger than 8 years.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Uses manual harvesting, sustainable vineyard management minimizing chemical inputs, natural fermentations, and limited intervention. Energy efficient cellar operations with water conservation and renewable energy sources are reportedly in use.

Castello dei Rampolla has a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture dating back decades. Their certified organic status and adoption of biodynamic principles contribute positively to environmental health. Combined with efficient modern cellar practices and local sourcing, their carbon footprint is moderate with ongoing efforts to improve sustainability.