Contrada S 2013
Throughout Europe, 2013 was a cold and delayed vintage, resulting in lighter wines this vintage. In Sciaranuova, the mineral characteristics, varietal notes of marzipan and camphor, and red-fruited aromas are well preserved. The flavors are powerful and ripe while in its youth. We picked in this Contrada on the 25th of October.
Vineyard age: 80 years
Vineyard area: 1 hectare
Vineyard density: 8,000 vines/Ha
Vineyard altitude: 850 m asl
Yield per hectare: 20 Hl/Ha
Fertilization: None
Spraying: Propolis, clay, grapefruit seed extract
Vinification: Alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel vats for 15 days
Aging: MLF followed by 18 months aging in large, neutral oak barrels
Bottling: waning moon of April 2015
Production: 2,100 bottles
REVIEWS
“Dark red. Deep, rich aromas of red cherry, licorice, fennel and minerals; this seems more concentrated than the Contrada R but less refined. Then richer and smoother on the palate, with ripe but fresh red cherry and raspberry flavors complicated by minerals and fresh herbs. The finish is long, smooth and very precise. Contrada S stands for Sciaranuova, a vineyard area located between 850 and 900 meters above sea level where the grapes are exposed to sun almost all day long.”
“Fragrant, fresh scents of perfumed berry, blue flower, crushed stone and a hint of exotic spice meld together on this. The elegant palate delivers bright red cherry, white pepper, flinty mineral and a sprinkling of clove alongside bright acidity and silky, polished tannins. Drink 2018–2023.”
– Wine Enthusiast, 93 points
“From the Sciaranuova vineyard, the 2013 Contrada S is light in appearance and a bit edgy or sharp in terms of its aromatic delivery. The bouquet reveals brambly aromas of wild berry, cherry cola and rosemary sprig. The fruit intensity is downplayed and the wine’s mineral definition is underlined as a result. It leaves the strongest imprint. The finish is dry and very streamlined. Like all these other single-vineyard expressions, the wine ages in large oak casks. (Drinking window: 2017-2024)”
– Monica Larner, Robert Parker, 90 points