Production
Il Quercione is San Felice's most prized vineyard on their Campogiovanni estate. 250 metres and south facing, the vineyard is just 2.5 hectares. It was planted in 1983 on largely silt and sand soils with some clay, resting on sandstone and calcareous marl. The vines are spur-pruned cordon and harvested around the beginning of October. Twenty-five day maceration at 30°C, followed by malolactic fermentation and a 24-month maturation in 500-litre French oak tonneaux and a further 36 months in the bottle. 7000 bottles produced.
Tasting notes
A wonderfully complex nose, open and evolved yet fresh and alive, and a huge range of aromas with violet and wild red berry, leather, sandalwood, dried fruits along with toasty, balsamic notes. Opulent and well structured on the palate with ripe red fruits balanced by youthful acidity and fine grained tannins. Hugely complex with finesse and delicacy and a long, savoury, nuanced finish. Remarkably approachable for a wine of this stature though will undoubtedly improve over a decade or more.
Food match
Great with grilled meats, rare lamb or steak.
