Mission Codename To the stars!
“One of my favorite estates in Castellina thanks to the enormous attention on aesthetics practiced at this modern, art-loving property.” – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
A few months back we sold the immensely popular “Nectar Dei” blend from this iconic estate. That was easily one of the best Super Tuscan values we’ve ever seen.
Until now.
Today we’re back with another screaming good value from this Tuscan producer - a similarly rich, luscious - sleek like a Testarossa - Cabernet blend from the lovely Maremma’s coastally influenced countryside. Like that previous offer, this brings a hefty score - 94 points. But unlike that one, the price is WAY lower.
In fact, this may be the highest-rated and lowest priced red by Carlo Ferrini ever, that famous consultant you’ll recall from his own project Giodo, along with legends like San Leonardo, Romitorio, Petrolo, Ricasoli, Brancaia…
Call it a “Baby Super” but make sure it’s no wimp, with an equal half of the Cabernets: Sauvignon and Franc, and the other half classic Sangiovese. Deep ruby red in the glass, it’s densely packed with red cherry and plums, a touch of wild herbs, and some worn leather. “Creamy and round tannins” as James notes and a brisk acidity that makes it a perfect dinner companion. Cook up that famous Tuscan staple Bistecca Fiorentina, or whip up a Tagliatelle al Tartufo, and you enter that full-on celestial Italian food renaissance mode without hurting your wallet on a lavish trip out there.
For $22 you shouldn’t have to think hard about this one. Maybe bring a friend along for the ride using your referral link - remember every person you recruit earns you $20 in credits!
Wish we had more!
94 Points – James Suckling
“A beautiful Maremma red with blackberry, blackcurrant and chocolate aromas and flavors. Medium to full body with creamy, round tannins that are polished and refined. Drink after 2021, but already a beauty.”
Tasting Profile
Red cherry, plums, wild herbs, and some worn leather
Look | Deep ruby red in the glass with crimson highlights |
---|---|
Smell | Red cherry and plums, a touch of wild herbs, worn leather |
Taste | “Creamy and round tannins” (JS) with a brisk acidity on top |
Finish | Call it a “Baby Super” if you will, but make sure it’s no wimp |
Pairing | Bistecca Fiorentina, or a Tagliatelle al Tartufo, mmm! |
What the Winery Says
2018 'Ad Astra’ Maremma Cabernet Blend
- Consulting winemaker
- Carlo Ferrini
- Varietals
- 50% Cabernet Sauvignon & Franc, 50% Sangiovese
- Vintage
- 2018
- Alcohol
- 14%
- Appellation
- Maremma Toscana DOC
- Vineyard
- Ad Astra Vineyard
- Soils
- Sand with granite
- Harvest dates
- September 10-28, 2018
- Total acidity
- 5.6 g/L
- pH
- 3.35
- Bottling date
- October 2020
- Aging
- 14 months
- Barrels
- 10% new French oak