Le Mortelle Poggio alle Nane 2019 is an expressive red wine from the heart of Tuscany, Italy, crafted by the prestigious Le Mortelle estate, part of the Antinori family holdings. This cuvée typically blends predominantly Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, with touches of Carménère, resulting in a wine that intricately balances structure, aromatic complexity and finesse. The 2019 vintage was marked by a temperate growing season, providing optimal conditions for slow, balanced ripening and rich phenolic development. Vinification at Le Mortelle combines meticulous vineyard management with modern cellar techniques, including temperature-controlled fermentation and ageing in French oak barrels, which imparts subtle spice and enhances the wine's tactile depth.
Tuscany is revered for its undulating landscapes bathed in Mediterranean sun, cooled by sea breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea. The region’s soils are a patchwork of clay, sand and gravel, particularly around the Maremma area where Le Mortelle is situated, encouraging excellent drainage and the production of intense, elegant wines. Tuscany's wine heritage dates back to the Etruscans, and its historical embrace of Bordeaux varietals since the mid-20th century has given rise to outstanding “Super Tuscan” blends such as Poggio alle Nane.
This wine’s refined tannins and layers of dark cherry, wild berries, cedar and subtle herbaceous notes make it a superb companion to classic Tuscan fare. Pair it with bistecca alla fiorentina (Tuscan-style T-bone steak), wild boar ragù on fresh pappardelle or a simple platter of aged pecorino and cured meats. Mediterranean-style roasted lamb or mushroom risotto would also highlight its earthy elegance.
To fully appreciate its complexity, decant the wine for about an hour before serving. The optimal tasting temperature is 16-18°C. Serve in large-bowled red wine glasses to allow the intricate bouquet to unfold gracefully. This is a wine capable of ageing, but already offers plenty of pleasure if approached thoughtfully.
