Antinori Guado al Tasso Cont'Ugo Bolgheri DOC 2021
(Tuscany, Italy) - [JD 95] [VM 92] [WS 92]
Regular price $66.00 Sale price $59.97 Save $6.03
About the Winery:
The Guado al Tasso estate is located in the small but prestigious Bolgheri DOC, on the coast of upper Maremma, about one hundred kilometers southwest from Florence. This appellation has a relatively recent history, DOC Bolgheri was approved in 1995 and since then it has become an internationally recognized reference point for the Italian and international winemaking arena.
The estate covers an area of 320 hectares (790 acres) planted with vines, set in a beautiful plain encircled by rolling hillsides known as the "Bolgheri Amphitheatre" due to its particular shape.
The vineyards are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Vermentino Nero and Bianco. The nearby sea provides a mild climate with constant breezes that mitigate summer heat and alleviate harsh winter weather, maintaining a clear sky and a high level of sunlight exposure.
About the Wine:
Cont’Ugo is produced entirely with Merlot as a new interpretation of the Bolgheri territory. The vineyards grow at an altitude that varies between 45 and 60 meters (147/196 feet) above sea level on clay-loam soils that are of alluvial origin that give the wine deep complex notes while preserving the fragrance and freshness typical of Merlot berries.
Tasting Notes:
Cont’Ugo 2021 in intensely ruby red in color. The nose presents compelling aromas of small ripe red fruit, Marasca cherries and raspberries, together with hints of juniper and moss. The palate is vibrant with excellent structure and a persistent fruity finish.
Ratings & Reviews
95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"An inky red/purple color, the 2021 Cont'Ugo offers a gorgeous nose with pure, ripe aromas of red apple skin, vanilla bean, mocha, sweet tobacco, and sandalwood. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and ample, with very nice mouthwatering acidity and mineral undercurrents despite having such plushness of fruit. Delicate notes of dark chocolate on the finish balance this out nicely and add lift to this pillowy wine. It’s approachable now but will benefit from time to show off its more Mediterranean notes and will provide an ample drinking window over the next 15 or more years." (Jan 2024)
92 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2021 Cont'Ugo (Merlot) is packed with inky dark fruit, chocolate, new leather, licorice and cloves. This sumptuous Merlot will drink well right out of the gate. It is the archetype of a Maremma red." – Antonio Galloni (Aug 2023)
92 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Fresh and varietally expressive, this red bursts with cherry, black currant, olive, tobacco and sweet spice flavors. Balanced and open, with a lingering aftertaste of fruit and spices. Drink now through 2028. 684 cases imported." – Bruce Sanderson (Oct 2023)