# Bolgheri Rosso (2022)

- **Producer:** Le Macchiole
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €28
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** grass, black plum, blackberry, green bell pepper, black cherry, raspberry, blackcurrant, red cherry, coffee, cloves, vanilla, cedar, chocolate, leather, forest floor, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Le Macchiole Bolgheri Rosso is the estate's signature wine, representing their unique take on the Bolgheri terroir with a blend of international varietals. Founded in the 1980s by Eugenio Campolmi and Cinzia Merli, Le Macchiole is recognized as a pioneering Super Tuscan producer. Their approach combines traditional winemaking with organic farming, aiming to highlight the distinct characteristics of the Bolgheri appellation. The 2022 vintage experienced a challenging growing season with dry conditions and cooler spring temperatures, followed by a dry summer that concentrated the fruit, necessitating careful vineyard management and harvest selection.

## Interesting facts

- Le Macchiole is considered one of the original 'Super Tuscan' producers.
- The estate focuses on organic farming practices.
- This wine is often seen as an introduction to Le Macchiole's portfolio.
- The blend includes Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and structured tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, while its balanced acidity cuts through fattier dishes. Herbal notes in the wine can echo those found in seasoned dishes, creating harmonious pairings.

## Wine making process

The Le Macchiole Bolgheri Rosso is produced using grapes from vineyards farmed organically. Following harvest, fermentation and maceration occur for about 15 days in stainless steel tanks. The wine then rests for 10 months, with a significant portion aged in used oak barriques and the remainder in concrete tanks. This process is designed to highlight the unique characteristics of the Bolgheri terroir.