Antinori Con’t Hugo Bolgeri Rosso 2019
Cont’Ugo is produced entirely with Merlot as a new interpretation of the Bolgheri territory. The vines grow at altitudes ranging between 45 and 60 metres (147/196 ft) above sea level on loamy-sandy soils of alluvial origin, which give the wine deep complex notes while retaining the aroma and freshness typical of the Merlot fruit.
After the grapes were hand-harvested and carefully selected on sorting tables, the fruit was transferred to temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks where alcoholic fermentation and maceration on the skins took place over a period of about 20 days. Fermentation temperatures are managed based on the ripeness of the grapes: lower temperatures are applied to preserve and improve aromatic freshness, while higher temperatures, up to 30 °C (86 °F), to stimulate the extraction of phenolic compounds and improve structure. The different lots were separated according to their individual characteristics and then transferred to barriques, one-third of which were new. The malolactic fermentation is completed by the end of the year. The best batches were blended and transferred back to barriques for an additional 12-month aging period, then bottled. Cont’Ugo was left to age in the bottle for a further 3 months before being released for sale.
Cont’Ugo 2019 has an intense ruby red colour. On the nose it offers intense notes of small ripe red fruits accompanied by sweet spices and light hints of peaty and earthy aromas. On the palate the tannins are exceptional, with good tension and excellent length. This vintage will be remembered for a wine of exceptional harmony, a real feast for the palate.
