Tenute del Cabreo Il Borgo 1997 3L

Tenute del Cabreo is part of the Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari estate, a family with deep roots in Tuscany’s winemaking tradition. The Il Borgo label, first introduced in the 1980s, was one of the earliest Super Tuscan wines, blending sangiovese with cabernet sauvignon to create a wine that combines the elegance of Tuscany with the structure of Bordeaux. Sourced from vineyards in Greve in Chianti, Il Borgo is known for its ability to age gracefully, developing rich secondary characteristics while maintaining its vibrant core.

The 1997 vintage was one of the greatest in Tuscany’s history, marked by a warm growing season that produced ripe, powerful wines with excellent structure. The sangiovese, grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Chianti Classico, brings freshness and bright acidity, while the cabernet sauvignon adds depth and richness. The wine was aged in French oak barriques for 16 months before extended bottle ageing, allowing for seamless integration of tannins and complex evolution over time. Now, with more than 25 years of maturity, Il Borgo 1997 has softened beautifully while retaining remarkable energy.

Appearance: Deep garnet with a brick-orange rim, showing both age and elegance. The wine remains luminous in the glass, with slow-moving legs that suggest a well-preserved structure and refined tannins.

Aroma: Wonderfully evolved, with layers of dried cherry, blackcurrant, and stewed plum. Secondary aromas of leather, cigar box, and balsamic reduction emerge, alongside hints of dried rosemary, cedar, and crushed violets. A subtle earthy note of forest floor and truffle adds further depth.

Taste: Silky and refined, with beautifully integrated tannins providing structure without harshness. The palate opens with red berry compote, dried fig, and blackcurrant, followed by savoury elements of tobacco, dried herbs, and black olive tapenade. The oak influence has mellowed into delicate notes of vanilla, dark chocolate, and a touch of espresso. A bright acidity keeps the wine fresh and balanced, showcasing the longevity of this exceptional vintage.

Finish: Long and graceful, with lingering notes of dried red fruit, spice, and a savoury umami richness. The tannins have softened into a fine, velvety texture, ensuring a seamless, elegant conclusion.

Food Pairing:
Braised wild boar ragu with pappardelle, where the wine’s aged complexity and earthy tones enhance the dish’s deep, slow-cooked flavours.
Aged Pecorino Toscano, as the wine’s savoury, nutty, and balsamic notes beautifully complement the cheese’s umami character