Felsina : Maestro Raro 2017

Tasting characteristics and advice for Maestro Raro 2017 from Felsina

Tasting

Appearance

The color reveals a deep ruby red hue, lifted by purple and violet highlights.

Nose

The nose reveals a complex, generous bouquet. Aromas of black berries, blackcurrant and black cherry intertwine with notes of tobacco, leather and black tea. Hints of coffee, chocolate and cedar complete this rich aromatic palette, with no herbaceous notes.

Palate

On the palate, Maestro Raro 2017 stands out for its firm structure and controlled power. Intense flavors of blackcurrant jam and black cherry mingle with smoky notes that linger long on the palate. The tannins, well integrated and persistent, are tempered by a refreshing acidity that brings elegance and balance to the whole. The finish extends remarkably, reflecting the exceptional quality of this wine.

Food and wine pairings

This Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with red meats and game. It is the perfect match for a grilled steak, roast lamb or braised wild boar. Tomato-based dishes, such as pasta with rich sauces or traditional ragùs, also make harmonious pairings. For cheeses, opt for firm, well-aged styles such as aged pecorino.

Serving and cellaring

Maestro Raro 2017 has excellent aging potential and can be cellared for around 10 to 15 years. This wine will benefit from decanting before serving to fully reveal its aromatic complexity.

An exceptional Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon by Felsina

The estate

Founded in 1966 by Domenico Poggiali, Felsina now stands out as one of the most respected producers in Chianti Classico. The estate spans over 500 hectares, including around 90 hectares of vineyards, located in Castelnuovo Berardenga, to the southeast of the appellation. Now led by Giovanni Poggiali, representing the third generation of the family, Felsina combines tradition and innovation, practicing biodynamic viticulture alongside the most modern technologies. The estate is particularly renowned for its pioneering work on massal selection of Sangiovese and for its commitment to the authentic expression of Tuscan terroirs.

The vineyard

The grapes for Maestro Raro 2017 come from two adjacent vineyards: Rancia Piccola and Poggiolo, located in the historic heart of Felsina’s terroir. These plots, set between 400 and 420 meters above sea level, benefit from a southwesterly exposure and well-ventilated slopes. The soils are composed of limestone derived from alberese and galestro marl, geological features that give Cabernet Sauvignon a particularly distinctive expression. Planting density reaches around 5,400 vines per hectare, with a bilateral cordon training system. Harvesting is carried out entirely by hand, selecting only grapes from mature vines, reflecting the estate’s uncompromising commitment to quality.

Winemaking and aging

After the hand harvest, the selected bunches are destemmed and crushed. The must ferments at controlled temperatures of 28 to 30°C in stainless-steel tanks, with scheduled pump-overs and daily rack-and-returns over 16 to 20 days. Between March and April, the new wine is transferred into new French oak barrels. Maestro Raro 2017 then undergoes 18 to 20 months of maturation in new oak. After the final blending, this Tuscan wine is bottled and then aged in glass for a minimum of 8 to 10 months before release.

Grape variety

100% Cabernet Sauvignon