SOPRALAGO
A cru wine from Sangiovese grapes that perfects Bonsalto’s terroir. A specific point on the map of Tuscan wines.
Denomination: IGT Toscana Sangiovese
Grape varieties: Sangiovese 100%
Number of bottles: 2,300
Area: All the vineyards stand on the same south-, south-eastern facing slope and are surrounded by woods, which shelter them from the main winds. So, Bonsalto’s microclimate is one-of-a-kind, it is quite unique. Soil: clayey, alluvial. The skeleton consists of pebbles and water-polished sandstone. Quite full of macronutrients and poor in nitrogen, alkaline soils are not too fertile, so they provide good water supplies even in the draughty seasons. Sopralago identifies the vineyard where the estate’s historic Sangiovese is located, planted over 25 years ago. Characterized by a specific microclimate, due to the presence of a forest to the west and a small lake to the east, it ensures a slow maturation of the grapes and represents the pinnacle of Bonsalto’s terroir.
Height: 150 metres above sea level
Harvest: strictly by hand, into boxes
Vinification and maturation: spontaneous fermentation in open vats, with wild yeasts only, with no temperature control. 25% of whole grapes and maceration with skins for 10 – 15 days. Maturation in wood, with 20% new wood, for 10 months and in bottles for another 10 months.
Distinctive features: at the back of the vineyard, the wood looks like a mantle that shelters this “cru” vineyard, perched over a small lake. Here, there are only plantings of Sangiovese, the quintessential Tuscan variety, the one that knows how to exude all the character of the terroir. The wine matures in barrels for a year: it is inviting, finely laced with a tapestry of floral, mineral and spicy notes, while the mouthfeel has deep spark, flavour and character.