# Principessa Maria (2019)

- **Producer:** Villa Cosmiana
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €36
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, cherry, blackberry, chocolate, cinnamon, liquorice

## About this wine

Principessa Maria is a red wine from the Terre di Pisa DOC in Tuscany, Italy, produced by Villa Cosmiana. The 2019 vintage is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, reflecting a Bordeaux-style influence. The wine is named in honor of Princess Maria Antinori-Aldobrandini, the last historic owner of the Villa Cosmiana estate, who was known for hosting artists and intellectuals. The estate itself has a rich history, having been abandoned for over 30 years before its restoration. The new owners aim to blend Tuscan tradition with modern winemaking technology, with the first vintage being 2019. Principessa Maria is considered one of the estate's signature creations since its revival, representing a modern Super Tuscan from a developing appellation.

## Interesting facts

- Named for Princess Maria Antinori-Aldobrandini, a prominent figure of the early 20th century.
- A 'Super Tuscan' blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc.
- First vintage from the restored Villa Cosmiana estate.
- Produced in the emerging Terre di Pisa DOC appellation.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and velvety tannins are well-suited to richer protein dishes, where they can complement the meat's texture and flavor. The dark fruit notes in the wine can echo or contrast with fruit-based sauces, while herbal or earthy elements in the food can bridge to the wine's subtle spice notes.

## Wine making process

Principessa Maria is produced using a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. The grapes are sourced from vineyards on the Pisan hills, with vines averaging nearly 50 years in age. Viticulture follows sustainable practices, emphasizing quality. The harvest involves hand-picking and careful selection of the grapes. Vinification occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks. The modern cellars, updated in 2019, feature entirely manual operations. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for a minimum of 12 months in stainless steel, followed by at least six months of bottle maturation before release.