Tenuta Meraviglia Bolgheri Rosso 2023

Tenuta Meraviglia is Alejandro Bulgheroni's Bolgheri estate, set on a hill near the Tyrrhenian coast where sea, wind and sun shape the vineyards. This is the estate's Bolgheri Rosso, a fresher and earlier-drinking expression than the Superiore. The coastal position is central to its character: maritime breezes cool the vines and extend ripening, allowing Cabernet Franc to keep its herbal, peppery freshness alongside ripe fruit. The well-drained gravel and clay soils of Bolgheri concentrate flavour, and the organic, sustainable farming protects the natural acidity. The wine spends twelve months in French oak, enough to round the tannins and add a light frame of spice through slow oxygen exchange while leaving the fruit in the lead. The colour is bright ruby. The nose shows red cherry, raspberry and plum, lifted by dried herbs and a touch of black pepper. The palate is medium to full-bodied, fresh and approachable, with supple tannins and a savoury finish. It drinks well now and over the next few years. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. It pairs naturally with roast meats and tomato-based dishes.