A relatively dry beginning of spring was followed by a rainy second half with cooler temperatures that slowed down vine growth by about two weeks compared to seasonal averages. Summer was hot with rain showers that were well distributed throughout the season. At harvest time, the grapes had an excellent balance between sugar levels and acidity and great aromatic potential due to significant temperature fluctuations between day and night during the final weeks of ripening\n \n Bright ruby purple in colour. On the nose, aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, white pepper, and peppermint with balsamic nuances in the background. The palate has crisp acidity and fine tannins, with fresh cherry fruit. Uncomplicated and easy drinking with a lightly driven finish, great value for money.\n \n Producer Information\n Santa Cristina is a wine producer located in the Tuscan commune of Cortona. It is owned by Marchesi Antinori, one of Italy's most renowned and historic wine companies. The Santa Cristina wine portfolio includes wines under the Chianti Superiore DOCG, the Toscana IGT, the Umbria IGT and the Orvieto Classico DOC. The flagship Santa Cristina red wine was first created as a Chianti Classico in 1946, a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. The introduction of the DOCG laws in 1984 prohibited the use of Merlot, forcing the company to reconsider the blend, eventually releasing the wine under the more forgiving Toscana IGT title in 1994. Today the flagship wine is still a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, the portion of each depends on the vintage. The remaining collection is composed of a range of sparkling wines as well as a varietal based collection.
