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SummuS

Toscana IGT

Very intense color and young fruity hints combined with complex jam, spices, tobacco, and coffee notes. In the mouth, a strong structure, with important and sweet tannins. Persistent aromas and long finish.

Varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese
Trellising System
Spurred cordon, Banfi alberello
Fermentation

in temperature-controlled (24-30°C) hybrid French oak and stainless-steel tanks Horizon

Aging

In 350 l French oak barriques for at least 18 months

Years / Technical sheets / Awards

First Year

1985

  • 2021

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 2021 VINTAGE

    An intense Supertuscan that represents very well the potential of the vines that compose it.

    TASTING NOTES

    The growing season of the 2019 vintage was characterized by an extraordinary cold in the months of April and May which delay the vegetative development, which was subsequently recovered, thanks to a hot and dry period. The sunny months of August and September allowed an optimal ripening of the grapes. 2019 is a harvest characterized by a high quality and intense territorial personality that gave us very structured and flavor wines.

    Very intense color and young fruity hints combined with complex jam, spices, tobacco, and coffee notes. In the mouth, a strong structure, with important and sweet tannins. Persistent aromas and long finish.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for around 24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 2020

    THE 2020 VINTAGE

    The growing season started about 10 days early after a winter characterised by mild temperatures. Spring rainfall changed the physiological trend of our vineyards, slowing down the vegetative cycles. From the second decade of June, a gradual rise in temperatures affected the whole of southern Tuscany until the end of July. In August, there was a further rise in temperatures which significantly brought forward the harvest period for white grapes and early reds, but thanks to good diurnal temperature ranges and the absence of rain, we obtained very interesting aromatic profiles and preserved the acidity across all varieties.

    Despite facing a hot and dry year, the non-humid late-summer nights favoured a more gradual and harmonious ripening, with intense aromatic profiles, especially in the international varieties. It has been an excellent vintage for red varieties, which expressed themselves organoleptically with fruity aromas and a fine tannic structure, without tipping into over-ripeness.

    TASTING NOTES

    The growing season of the 2019 vintage was characterized by an extraordinary cold in the months of April and May which delay the vegetative development, which was subsequently recovered, thanks to a hot and dry period. The sunny months of August and September allowed an optimal ripening of the grapes. 2019 is a harvest characterized by a high quality and intense territorial personality that gave us very structured and flavor wines.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for around 24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    WINE SPECTATOR 93

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2019

    THE 2019 VINTAGE

    Expression of the meeting between the Sangiovese, an emblematic vine of Montalcino and the peculiarities of the international vines implanted in this area.

    TASTING NOTES

    The growing season of the 2019 vintage was characterized by an extraordinary cold in the months of April and May which delay the vegetative development, which was subsequently recovered, thanks to a hot and dry period. The sunny months of August and September allowed an optimal ripening of the grapes. 2019 is a harvest characterized by a high quality and intense territorial personality that gave us very structured and flavor wines.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for around 24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    MUNDUS WINES Gold 

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 92

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2018

    THE 2018 VINTAGE

    Expression of the meeting between the Sangiovese, an emblematic vine of Montalcino and the peculiarities of the international vines implanted in this area.

    TASTING NOTES

    The winter was rich in rainfall with little snow. The vegetative recovery phase took place during the usual times, with budding that developed in the second half of April. In May, copious rain favored the vegetative development. The summer of 2018 was particularly humid and characterized by frequent precipitations, often in form of storms. September and October, on the other hand, were sunny months, with temperatures higher than the seasonal average and good temperature ranges.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for about 18 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    ROBERTPARKER.COM 94

    GARDININOTES.COM 99

    WOW Gold

    WINES CRITIC 95

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2017

    THE 2017 VINTAGE

    Expression of the meeting between the Sangiovese, an emblematic vine of Montalcino and the peculiarities of the international vines implanted in this area.

    TASTING NOTES

    2017 vintage was characterized by a particularly dry and hot summer, which favored the early ripening of the grapes. The absence of rains during September favored the harvest operations.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 15,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l.) and casks (60 hl – 90 hl) for about 18-24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    THE DRINK BUSINESS Gold

    WINEHUNTER Gold

    WINESCRITIC 95

    MUNDUS WINES Gold

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 94

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2016

    THE 2016 VINTAGE

    An intense and deep Supertuscan that represents very well the potential of the three vines that compose it.

    TASTING NOTES

    The mild winter accelerated the start of the growing season, then brought back to normal by frequent rains in the spring. Then, in the summer, the temperature ranges between day and night have created the optimal conditions for the grapes ripening. Thanks to the careful work in the vineyard and in the cellar, it was possible to obtain excellent grapes quality.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350-litre French oak barriques for approx. 18 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    WINE ENTHUSIAST 94

    ROBERTPARKER.COM 94+ 

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2015

    THE 2015 VINTAGE

    Expression of the meeting between the Sangiovese, an emblematic vine of Montalcino and the peculiarities of the international vines implanted in this area.

    TASTING NOTES

    The result is a wine characterised by a very intense aroma of ripe fruit and plum and cherry jam, accompanied by notes of vanilla, coffee and tobacco. A broad, substantial and elegant structure.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 20 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    IWC 95 - Tuscan red blend trophy & Tuscan trophy

    WINE SPECTATOR 94

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 94

    GILBERT & GAILLARD 93

    WINESCRITIC 95

    THE DRINK BUSINESS Gold

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2014

    THE 2014 VINTAGE

    The growing season started slightly early. We had a very rainy spring and cool temperatures, well below seasonal averages, during the summer months. This meant that the grapes ripened about 10 days later than in past years. The harvesting of the earlier varieties was aided by a rather cool start to September, whilst the later varieties benefited from a rise in temperatures in the final third of the month, which allowed the grapes to ripen fully.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 20 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    WINE SPECTATOR 92

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2013

    THE 2013 VINTAGE

    Expression of the meeting between the Sangiovese, an emblematic vine of Montalcino and the peculiarities of the international vines implanted in this area.

    TASTING NOTES

    The growing cycle began with a significant delay, with some rains during the Spring. June was marked by cooler temperatures, under the seasonal average. August and September were hot and dry, but the ripening, despite two weeks delay, have been supported by water reserves of the previous months. Summer nights were characterized by cooler temperatures, contributing to the improvement of the quality of the grapes. From the end of September, rainfall was abundant, causing problems during the repining, without affecting the vineyards.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    WINE ENTHUSIAST 93

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 93

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2012

    THE 2012 VINTAGE

    A Supertuscan that perfectly combines the best tradition of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with the territory of Montalcino.

    The high temperatures recorded during the summer period have enhanced the structure of this great wine, which has kept all of its elegance intact.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 92

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2011

    THE 2011 VINTAGE

    The growing season began with a slight delay and spring was characterised by very rainy Mays and Junes. June temperatures were very cool and well below seasonal averages. From the beginning of July, temperatures began to rise until they became sweltering in the second week of the month, while August recorded a further drop in temperatures with very cool nights which greatly benefited the quality of the grapes, both in terms of aromas and the retention of organic acids. From mid-August throughout September and October, rainfall was very low, facilitating harvesting operations.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 15%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 95

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2010

    THE 2010 VINTAGE

    The growing season started slightly late, followed by abundant rain in May and June. Temperatures in June were cool and well below seasonal averages; n the beginning of July the temperatures began to warm up and became quite hot by mid-month. Temperatures cooled down again in August again with notably cool nights, which significantly contributed to the quality of the fruit, both in terms of aromas and natural acids. From the middle of August through the months of September and October rainfall was scarce, resulting in an excellent harvest.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 93

    ROBERTPARKER.COM 93

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2009

    THE 2009 VINTAGE

    The spring start to the growing cycle was marked by abundant rainfall, which helped provide high levels of water reserves. The rainy phase went on until mid-July, with temperatures particularly cool and well below the seasonal norm. After mid July, the weather stayed warm and dry; in this phase, the vines could take advantage of the water reserves accumulated during the spring. Relatively cool nighttime temperatures allowed for the gradual development of aromatics and polyphenols, enhancing the overall quality of the grapes. The harvest went smoothly thanks to dry, warm and sunny days in September and October.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 94

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2008

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 2008 VINTAGE

    The growing season began somewhat late, but the later stages were also delayed by above-average rainfall in May and June. The temperature was also cooler than normal until mid-July. By mid-August hail did severe damage to numerous vineyards leading to a significant drop in production. All these circumstances combined with a decidedly cold September resulted in a slippage forward in harvest time by almost two weeks.

    A vintage characterised by a warm summer, but with significant diurnal temperature ranges that favoured the synthesis of varietal aromas and great structure.

    TASTING NOTES

    Intense and deep colour, sweet, fruity aromas of ripe cherries and plums, but also buttery and toasted notes, with a classic hint of grilled pepper imparted by the pyrazines of Cabernet Sauvignon. Structure of the utmost elegance and balance, with broad and smooth tannins. Extremely long flavours on the palate. Enormous ageing potential.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14,9 %

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for around 24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 2007

    THE 2007 VINTAGE

    The timely spring rains well replenished the aquifers so that water was never lacking during the hot summer months. A very hot July laid the groundwork for an excellent ripening process, which was followed by an August with great temperature variations between day and night. September was also excellent.

    An exceptional vintage, which has enabled us to produce what is perhaps the most complete SummuS to date, in terms of its complexity, power and elegance all at once.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 15%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging passage in wood for 23 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    MUNDUS WINES Gold Medal

    WINE ENTHUSIAST 94

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2006

    THE 2006 VINTAGE

    An intense and deep Supertuscan that represents very well the potential of the three vines that compose it.

    Regular spring rainfall allowed for good water reserves over the hot summer months. High temperatures in July and an ideal range in daytime and nighttime temperatures in August allowed the grapes to ripen exceptionally well. A warm September allowed for an excellent harvest.

    TASTING NOTES

    The month of August, characterized by temperatures below the seasonal average, allowed for a balanced ripening of the grapes, resulting in a rich and full bodied wine which, at the same time, is exceptionally smooth and round.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14,9 %

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for around 24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    VERONELLI  95

    WINE ENTHUSIAST 92

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2005

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 2005 VINTAGE

    Regular spring weather marked by a pre-flowering hailstorm which, in some vineyards, led to a drastic reduction in yield. The summer had fairly cool temperatures, which avoided water stress conditions. With the exception of the first week, September was warm and sunny, meaning the grape harvest could take place and be completed in optimal conditions.

    TASTING NOTES

    The summer, which was cooler than usual, significantly lengthened the vine cycle, allowing the grapes to mature more gradually and harmoniously, thereby favouring a better ripening of the tannins, especially those from the seeds. The result is a wine characterised by greater smoothness.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 14%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in steel vats

    Aging passage in wood for 23 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 2004

    THE 2004 VINTAGE

    A Supertuscan that perfectly combines the best tradition of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with the territory of Montalcino.

    The excellent exposure to sunlight, combined with good water and heat availability, led to perfect sugar and polyphenol ripening, meaning that at the time of harvest the skins were sufficiently soft and ready to release their colour; the significant temperature variations between night and day helped to develop the varietal aromas.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in steel vats

    Aging passage in wood for 23 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    VERONELLI  3 Stars

    WINE ENTHUSIAST 92

    DUEMILAVINI 5 Bunches

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2003

    THE 2003 VINTAGE

    An intense and deep Supertuscan that represents very well the potential of the three vines that compose it.

    TASTING NOTES

    The seasonal conditions were marked by a severe spring frost and by one of the most severe heat waves in European history that greatly anticipated the start of the annual harvest. Fortunately, the heavy rainfall of the previous winter allowed for abundant water reserves in the soil, thus avoiding the risk of hydric stress for the plants. The spring frost, combined with the hot summer, allowed for a rich and concentrated fruit, even if greatly reduced in quantity. Most importantly, normal patterns of significant variations between daytime and night temperatures returned, adding finesse and complexity to this very good vintage. The exceptionally healthy berries of this vintage allow for an optimal quality harvesting.

    The extraordinary hot summer allowed for a powerful maturation and yielded a huge structure.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for around 24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    VERONELLI  93 - 3 Stars

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2001

    THE 2001 VINTAGE

    A Supertuscan that perfectly combines the best tradition of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with the territory of Montalcino.

    TASTING NOTES

    Although the summer was very hot, ripening was regular and allowed for an excellent synthesis of anthocyanins and tannins.

    Intense, very deep colour with aromas that are still fresh with cherry, plum and redcurrant, alongside more complex notes of spice, tobacco and leather. The structure is massive and formidable, with sweet and persistent flavours on the palate. Enjoyable from now over the next 15 years.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in combined French oak and stainless steel Horizon vats

    Aging in 350 liter French oak barrels (350 l) for around 24 months

    Soil various types, from sandy clay sediments with abundant pebbles and well-draining to calcareous clay soils that tend to retain humidity.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    JAMESSUCKLING.COM 93

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 2000

    THE 2000 VINTAGE

    Seasonal conditions remained within average ranges up until August: good winter rainfall and consistent spring temperatures led the vines to achieve an optimal vegetative balance by August. The yield per vine was well balanced in relation to the effective leaf area. Everything was pointing towards ideal ripening. However, between the eve of Ferragosto and the following day, there was a rise in temperature of 6°C so sudden that the vines had no time to adapt to the new conditions. The vines consequently went into water stress. The situation then worsened further in the following days (with daytime temperatures above 37°C and night-time temperatures above 20°C) with the result that all metabolic processes came to a standstill, whilst at the same time there was an acceleration in sugar ripening, attributable above all to the dehydration of the grapes. In Banfi’s history, 2000 was undoubtedly one of the most challenging harvests.

    The 2000 vintage was difficult to analyse from a technical perspective. The key to understanding it lies in determining the correct harvest times and maceration methods.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in steel vats

    Aging passage in wood for 23 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    DUEMILAVINI 5 Bunches

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 1999

    THE 1999 VINTAGE

    The climatic trend of the 1999 vintage is considered a textbook example in winemaking. Thanks to a rainy winter, the soils were able to build up an excellent water reserve, which the plants could then draw upon during the summer, characterised by warm but not scorching temperatures. During the cool, but not cold, spring, the vines developed very well and maintained a good balance right through to harvest. The light mid-summer rains helped stabilise the plants' metabolism and developed ideal tannins and polyphenols. Furthermore, the good day-night temperature ranges during the autumn period allowed intense varietal aromas to develop. With no particular weather events during the month of September, the grapes arrived at harvest healthy and beautiful.

    TASTING NOTES

    SummuS 1999 – fully embodies what the winemaker had envisaged from the very start of the winemaking process: a wine that is both full-bodied and smooth, with a good tannic structure, rich in colour and aromas, and a complex, long finish. A wine best enjoyed young but with great ageing potential.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13,5%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in steel vats

    Aging passage in wood for 17-20 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    WINE SPECTATOR 92

    WINE ENTHUSIAST 94 - #33 Top Wines of 2003

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 1998

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 1998 VINTAGE

    The 1998 vintage was characterised by particularly dry weather conditions during the summer. The high, almost scorching temperatures in late July and mid-August had a significant impact on the quality of the grapes. These temperatures resulted in limited vegetative growth of the vines; consequently, the grapes were generally much smaller in size than in previous years. Small berries with a high percentage of solid components (skin and pips) relative to the liquid phase (must) were the factors that also shaped the entire winemaking process. It was therefore necessary to reduce the concentration of tannins in the wines to make them smoother by shortening the maceration period and adopting all those technical measures that minimise the release of tannins from the skins and pips into the must, such as reducing maceration and pumping-over times, temperature control and the removal of grape seeds during vinification (which were responsible for the release of aggressive tannins in this vintage). Overall, 1998 was an excellent vintage for late-ripening varieties and a less favourable one for early-ripening varieties.

    1998 was a vintage that proved difficult to interpret from a technical perspective. The texture of the grapes called for specific winemaking choices aimed at interpreting and bringing out the best in the vintage’s quality. The priority was to create wines that were full-coloured, rounded and smooth yet not overpowering, rich in structure yet not tannic. Given the texture of the grapes and the weather conditions, and having analysed and processed the data on the quality and quantity of polyphenols present in the grapes, a bespoke winemaking plan was drawn up for each individual variety and for each individual vineyard. The key to successfully interpreting the vintage lay in accurately determining the harvest times and maceration methods.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation at a controlled temperature (25-30°) in steel vats

    Aging passage in wood for 23 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 1997

    THE 1997 VINTAGE

    Regular spring: The light rains during the veraison period allowed for good ripening, which benefited from a dry and optimal September.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    RED TAMBER 3 Glasses

    ITALIAN SOMMELIER ASSOCIATION 5 Bunches

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 1996

    THE 1996 VINTAGE

    Good weather conditions in the spring; a slight delay in the growth period was caught up with an early summer. The second half of the harvest was interrupted by rain, requiring good organisation and careful selection to preserve quality; the quantity was reduced.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    DUEMILAVINI 5 Bunches

    CONCOURS MONDIALE DE BRUXELLES Gold Medal

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 1995

    THE 1995 VINTAGE

    Good weather conditions in the spring, with appropriate temperatures and adequate rainfall. A rainy August with relatively low temperatures which affected the ripening of early varieties. Perfect conditions until the end of September allowed for excellent results for the late varieties.

    TASTING NOTES

    The remarkable structure required an additional period of ageing in wood (6 months) to achieve a proper balance and harmony.

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 22 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    WINE SPECTATOR 93

    RED TAMBER 3 Glasses

    WINE & SPIRIT 92

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 1994

    WORLD WINE CHAMPIONSHIP Gold Medal

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 1994 VINTAGE

    An intense and deep Supertuscan that represents very well the potential of the three vines that compose it.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    Long aging wine perfect with first courses of meat, such as spaghetti with white meat sauce or with vegetables based on vegetables, such as stuffed tomatoes or vegetable ratatouille.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 18 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 1993

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 1993 VINTAGE

    A very rainy spring was then followed by a very hot and dry summer. The rains in the first few days of September prevented later-ripening varieties, such as Sangiovese, from suffering drought stress and allowed the grapes to reach harvest in perfect condition.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 18 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 1990

    WINE SPECTATOR 92

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 1990 VINTAGE

    The heavy rainfall at the beginning of the summer period allowed us to prevent any phenomenon of water stress that the scorching summer and hot autumn could have caused. This seasonal progression allowed for optimal ripening of the grapes with the development of a high sugar concentration and a physiologically very ripe tannin.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 18 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 1988

    THE 1988 VINTAGE

    The spring rains, which were sufficient to replenish the water tables, were followed by a hot, sunny summer. The drier autumn then allowed us to harvest the grapes at the most optimal time.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 18 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

    AWARDS

    RED TAMBER 3 Glasses

    TECHNICAL SHEET

  • 1986

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 1986 VINTAGE

    Good rainfall and cool temperatures persisted throughout the spring season until the beginning of summer. Optimal weather conditions then followed throughout August and September, right up until the end of the grape harvest. As a primary consequence of this rather unbalanced seasonal pattern, the grape harvest was later than usual.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 18 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com

  • 1985

    TECHNICAL SHEET

    THE 1985 VINTAGE

    Spring, characterised by optimal weather conditions and temperatures, was followed by a particularly hot summer, with a drought period that lasted throughout the harvest. As a result, very concentrated grapes were obtained, yet endowed with fine, youthful tannins. The resulting wines are therefore characterised by great structure and body.

    TASTING NOTES

    Nice Spring, with both good temperatures and rainfall. Very hot and dry summer that caused some water stress. The rainfall in early September did not affect harvest.

    TECHNICAL DATA

    alcohol 13%

    Yield per hectare 60 q/ha.

    Fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks

    Aging passage in wood for 18 months

    Soil areas with a moderate incline on which clay sediments with pebbles and stones from limestone and sandstone develop.

    Serving temperature 16-18°C: 0,75 l castellobanfi.com