Toscana IGT 1997 Masseto

What kind of wine it is

Masseto is a red wine from Bolgheri made from Merlot grapes grown in the vineyard of the same name. Fermentation takes place in wooden vats at controlled temperatures, followed by aging in new French oak barriques. The wine stands out for its full structure, smooth tannic texture and aromatic depth, with a complex profile capable of evolving over time.

Where it comes from

The Masseto vineyard is located in Bolgheri on the Tuscan coast, characterized by clay soils and a mild temperate climate influenced by sea breezes. The vineyard is divided into three sub-zones – Masseto Centrale, Masseto Junior and Masseto Alto – managed separately to enhance exposure and harvest timing. The moderate altitude and strong sunlight promote early and complete ripening, giving the Merlot structure and aging potential.

How it is made

Production involves manual harvesting with careful selection, followed by destemming and gentle crushing. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in wooden vats between 27 and 30 °C with skin maceration for a period ranging from three to five weeks. Malolactic fermentation takes place in new French oak barriques, where the wine ages for about two years, followed by further bottle aging. Each plot is vinified separately to ensure consistency and accuracy in blending.

Tasting notes

Masseto presents a deep ruby red color with garnet highlights. The nose reveals ripe red fruit, sweet spices and toasted notes, with balsamic hints and cocoa that open up after aeration. The palate is full and enveloping, with a smooth tannic texture and good freshness. The finish is long and tidy, with spicy returns and expressive maturity that retains precision and definition.

Food pairings

Masseto pairs well with rich and structured dishes such as grilled red meats, roasts and braised game, as well as well-aged cheeses of good complexity. In Tuscan cuisine, it matches perfectly with bistecca alla fiorentina and stewed wild boar, where the protein and sauce components integrate with the tannins and enhance persistence. It is also excellent with pappardelle with hare ragù thanks to the spiciness and structure of the wine, which supports the egg pasta. Best to avoid dishes that are too delicate.

When to serve it

Masseto is ideal for important occasions and for the table during the cooler months, when its structure is at its best. It is recommended to serve at the proper temperature for structured red wines, after sufficient aeration to enhance aromas and tannin texture, especially in bottles with lengthy evolution. The wine offers immediate satisfaction but also retains great aging potential if stored under proper cellar conditions. This bottle comes from a private collection kept in optimal conditions and verified by experts for authenticity and preservation status.