At a glance

Producer

Castello del Terriccio

Region

Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese (blend; primarily Cab/Merlot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45 (USD)

Tasting profile

Rich dark cherry, blackberry, plum, and cassis with notes of cedar, baking spice, tobacco, and wild herbs. Tannins are refined and the finish is supple.

Evolution: Over time, develops more savory and tertiary notes: leather, earth, dried flowers, graphite. Fruit moves from fresh to compote.

At peak: At peak, expect seamless integration of fruit, earth, spice, and refined texture – classic Tuscan Bordeaux-style.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to moderately high

Tannins

Firm, well-integrated, fine-grained, moderate+

Alcohol

14% ABV (typical range 13.5-14.5%)

Aging potential

Medium to medium-long; 12-15 years from vintage in good cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2028

Optimal window

2022 to 2030

Current status

Maturing – Entering early plateau

Current condition

Showing integrated fruit and structure, secondary notes emerging but freshness and polish remain.

2017 was a warm, dry year in Tuscany, resulting in wines of ripeness, concentration, and early accessibility. While structured enough for a decade or more, the Tassinaia is crafted for enjoyment within 10-15 years; peak complexity builds around year 7-10, with ample freshness and polish, then will hold steady before gently declining after 2030.

Food pairing

Tuscan grilled steak (bistecca alla fiorentina), roast lamb, wild boar ragu, aged Pecorino, mushroom risotto, hearty tomato-based pasta dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Benefits from aeration to soften tannins and open aromatic complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Integrated pest management, minimal chemical intervention, native cover crops, manual harvesting for best lots, high-density planting to increase biodiversity; woodland and olivegrove integration around estate; no known large-scale energy or water initiatives.

Castello del Terriccio demonstrates a moderate commitment to sustainability: native habitat preservation, integrated farming, and a focus on long-term soil health. No certified organic/biodynamic status as of 2017, but vineyard practices minimize chemicals and promote biodiversity. Packaging is conventional (glass), and international shipping increases overall carbon load. No evidence of solar/wind energy or advanced water management as of 2017. For higher scores, look for formal certifications or innovative practices (solar, recycled glass, regenerative farming).