Il Borro, Il Borrigiano Valdarno di Sopra 2020 (Merlot 40% Syrah 35% Sangiovese 25%)

Il Borro, an esteemed estate in Tuscany, has a rich history dating back to 1254. In 1993, the Ferragamo family acquired the property, dedicating themselves to revitalising its winemaking traditions. 'Borrigiano' is notable as Il Borro's first wine to receive both the Valdarno di Sopra DOC designation and organic certification, reflecting the estate's commitment to quality and sustainability.

The 2020 vintage is a blend of 40% Merlot, 35% Syrah, and 25% Sangiovese. The vineyards are planted at a density of 5,000 vines per hectare, with each vine yielding up to 1 kg of grapes. Harvesting is done by hand, ensuring optimal selection of fruit. Post-harvest, the grapes undergo refrigeration and a two-day cold maceration in large oak barrels to preserve their aromatic complexity. Fermentation occurs at controlled temperatures, followed by 10 months of ageing in large wooden casks, which imparts subtlety and depth to the wine.

Appearance: The wine displays a lively ruby red colour with purplish reflections, indicating its youthful vitality and freshness. The core of the wine is deep and saturated, suggesting a good concentration of fruit, while the rim transitions to a lighter shade of red, highlighting its approachable character. When swirled, the wine forms elegant, slow-moving legs along the glass, hinting at its well-balanced alcohol content and medium-bodied structure. Its clarity and vibrancy reflect careful vinification, ensuring a visually appealing presence in the glass.

Aroma: On the nose, 'Borrigiano' offers an intense bouquet of fresh red fruits, notably cherry and wild strawberry. These fruity notes are complemented by subtle spicy scents of ginger and white pepper, adding complexity and intrigue to the aromatic profile. Hints of dried herbs and a delicate floral touch of violets emerge with time, enhancing its depth and elegance.

Taste: The palate is greeted with a pleasant freshness, characterised by lively acidity and well-integrated tannins. Flavours of red berries persist, accompanied by hints of spice that mirror the wine's aromatic profile. The medium-bodied structure and balanced profile make it an approachable and versatile wine. Subtle earthy undertones and a slight mineral streak add complexity, leading to a refined and expressive mouthfeel.

Finish: The finish is harmonious and clean, with the vibrant fruit flavours gently fading, leaving a refreshing aftertaste. The balanced acidity ensures a crisp conclusion, inviting another sip. Soft tannins linger gracefully, adding a touch of finesse and a slightly savoury note that enhances the wine’s structure.

Food Pairing: 'Borrigiano' pairs well with traditional Tuscan dishes such as bread-based soups like ribollita and pappa al pomodoro. It also complements fresh or lightly aged cheeses and is an excellent match for meat-based dishes that are not overly complex. Its freshness makes it a great option for grilled pork, roasted chicken, or vegetable-based pasta dishes. Serving at a temperature of 16–18°C is recommended to fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and structure.

This wine exemplifies Il Borro's dedication to producing high-quality, organically certified wines that honour the rich viticultural heritage of the Valdarno di Sopra region.