# Sondraia Bolgheri Superiore (2018)

- **Producer:** Poggio al Tesoro
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, blackcurrant, green bell pepper, black plum, blackberry, cedar, chocolate, vanilla, cloves, tobacco, earth, leather

## About this wine

Sondraia Bolgheri Superiore is the flagship wine of Poggio al Tesoro, a producer established in 2001 by the Allegrini family. Situated in the Bolgheri appellation of Tuscany, the wine embodies the 'Bolgherese style' through its blend of international grape varietals. The estate's vineyards are located approximately 25 meters above sea level, with soils composed of deep, well-draining clay and loose sand. The 2018 vintage saw a challenging spring followed by a beneficial summer, with vineyard practices contributing to grape quality. The wine is produced using the best grapes from the estate's parcels, including 'Via Bolgherese' and 'Le Sondraie'.

## Interesting facts

- A Super Tuscan, blending international grapes in a classic Italian region.
- Named after the estate's 'Le Sondraie' vineyard parcels.
- Represents the 'Bolgherese style' of winemaking.
- Poggio al Tesoro is part of the esteemed Allegrini family's portfolio.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and refined tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats. The savory notes in the wine can harmonize with herbs and slow-cooked preparations, while the balanced acidity helps to cut through fattier dishes.

## Wine making process

Sondraia Bolgheri Superiore is produced through alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks at temperatures between 28-30°C for 12-15 days. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 22 months in French oak barriques, with a proportion of new oak used. The grape varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, are blended to create the final wine. The 2018 harvest began in late August and finished in early October, with vineyard management focused on grape quality amidst varying weather conditions. The estate's vineyards are situated on soils composed of clay and sand at an elevation of approximately 25 to 56 meters above sea level.