Wines Bolgheri Guado al Tasso (Antinori) - Matarocchio - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Guado al Tasso Matarocchio 2017 is an exceptional red wine from the renowned Bolgheri DOC in Tuscany, crafted by the prestigious Antinori estate. This cuvée is primarily composed of Cabernet Franc, a grape variety that thrives in the Tuscan coastal climate, though the exact blend may include small proportions of Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon depending on the vintage. The 2017 vintage was marked by warm and dry conditions, resulting in a concentrated and structured wine, with deep ruby colour and aromas of ripe dark fruits, graphite, Mediterranean herbs, and subtle toasted spice from meticulous oak ageing. The vinification focuses on gentle extraction to preserve the finesse and aromatic complexity of the Cabernet Franc, followed by an extended maturation in French oak barrels to refine the tannins and provide additional layers of flavour.

Bolgheri, located along Tuscany’s Tyrrhenian coastline, has quickly established itself as one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions, famed for its “Super Tuscan” blends. The area benefits from a temperate maritime climate with cooling breezes, which temper the warmth and help retain acidity and aromatic freshness in the grapes. The soils are a mosaic of sand, clay, and gravel, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the depth and minerality of the wines. Bolgheri’s rise to prominence in the late 20th century owes much to innovative producers like Antinori, who combined international varieties with local expertise to create world-class wines.

For food pairing, Guado al Tasso Matarocchio 2017’s rich structure and aromatic intensity make it an ideal companion for hearty dishes such as roast Tuscan lamb, wild boar ragù with pappardelle, bistecca alla Fiorentina, or mature pecorino cheese. This wine will also pair beautifully with dishes featuring truffles or porcini mushrooms, enhancing the earthy notes and herbal complexity.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. It is advisable to decant for at least one hour before tasting to allow the bouquet to express itself fully and to soften the tannins. This is a wine with both immediate appeal and significant cellaring potential, promising even greater complexity with a few more years in the bottle.