The Tenuta di Arceno estate dates back to the 16th century and is located in the southernmost region of Chianti Classico, within the commune of Castelnuevo Berardenga. The estate encompasses 2,500 acres, but only 220 acres are planted to vineyards. Tenuta di Arceno produces six wines, three Chianto Classico DOCG wines and three Toscana IGT wines. All of the wines are estate grown and bottled. Plantings include Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot varietals. These wines are a level above other Italian producers and are considered a ‘contemporary” in style.

This wine is composed of 45% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petite Verdot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. The purple-garnet rim of this wine glistens. The spice-accented aromas reveal layers of red raspberry preserves, kirsch and wild strawberries that greet you at the entry. Within the background is saddle leather, sweet oak and a swath of fresh acidity. The freshness comes from the Cabernet Franc, which adds another dimension to the wine. The wine is not weighty, but instead driven by finesse and overall enjoyment.

By W Peter Hoyne