~ Salcheto farms organically and biodynamically. ~
Organic and biodynamic are a great start for any winery. But for Salcheto, it’s only the beginning. Since 1997, the Manelli family has run Salcheto after having restored the estate from its share-cropping roots. Today, they fiercely adhere to natural sustainability and their winery is energy independent and carbon neutral.
Salco, is the ancient Tuscan term for Willow Tree; which graces Salcheto’s labels. Salcheto is the name of the river that springs from the foot of Montepulciano and winds through the valley. It forms a natural border for the certified organic estate.
~ The winery is completely gravity fed and carbon neutral ~
Salcheto crafts Vino Nobile on four different levels. I wrote about their flagship wine in Part 3 of my large Tasting Report and their entry level Nobile in Part 2.
Today, I’m discussing their single vineyard cru. Sourced from 2 specific vineyards with five hectares between them, “Salco” is special. Production of this 100% Sangiovese peaks at about 14,000 bottles per year. After vinification in steel, the wine spends 24 months in oak and 36 months in bottle prior to release. Yes, the equivalent of Brunello Riserva. The 2016 is the current release.
The 2016 Salcheto Vino Nobile “Salco” is a deep crimson red. I chose not to decant the wine but I think 30-40 minutes would not have hurt.
The nose is very aromatic with blue flowers, deep black cherry, pipe tobacco and savory fennel notes. It’s really pretty to smell. On the palate, the wine is largely scaled. Full bodied black cherry fruit is peppered by assertive tannins. They are noticeable but not intrusive.
Sweet tobacco, dusty earth and hints of coffee grind play on the finish of this Sangiovese. It would make for a great ringer in a Brunello tasting. It’s excellent, though perhaps not the best value. 93 points. About $50. Find this wine & Support Tuscan Vines.
~ Salco is an impressive wine that is both distinctive and approachable ~
Stay tuned for more reviews of newly released wines coming soon….
Salute!
