M�rke: Conti Formentini

CABERNET FRANC
Collio DOC

The grapes: 100% cabernet franc

The vineyard: selected vines from the hills with the best exposure in the commune of San Floriano del Collio, at an average of over 200 metres above sea level; the vines are grown using the spurred cordon system in prevalently marlstone and sandstone soil, with an average density of more than 4,500 vines per hectare; the average grape crop is 8.5-9 tonnes/hectare, with a yield in wine of 65%.

Vinification: the grapes are harvested between the end of September and the beginning of October with a good level of ripeness. They are then taken to the cellar where one part is laid down in boxes and stored in a fruit shed to dry. The remainder is inoculated using selected yeasts in order to start alcoholic fermentation. A percentage of about 35% of grapes dried partly in the fruit shed is added to the wine, now ready, in various successive steps in order to provoke slight refermentation of the wine and exalt its secondary perfumes. The wine is refined for a few months in new and second passage wood to complete fermentation.

The wine: a full and lucid ruby red colour; an intense perfume of raspberry, amarena cherries, red fruits and sweet spices; a dry, full, imposing, harmonic and engaging flavour, with an elegant base of wild berry jam and a grassy taste which becomes even more harmonious with ageing.

Analytical data: 14.10% alcohol; 4.9 g/l total acidity; 3.60 pH ; 4.00 g/l sugar; 23.00 g/l dry extract.

Optimum conservation: 3-4 years in bottles laid on their sides in a cool dark environment.

Gastronomic combinations: fine red meats, roast lamb and kid, game and seasoned cheeses

Serving temperature: 18°C