Avignonesi, Grifi (Sangio/Cab Blend), Tuscany, Italy, 2018

Overview of the Wine
The estate, which bears the name of a noble family from Montepulciano, was taken over in 2009 by the Belgian Virginie Saverys. In a decade, under her leadership, Avignonesi has become the largest regenerative wine estate in Italy. Out of respect for workers, consumers and the environment, Virginie Saverys has banned highly toxic synthetic biocides - alas too widespread in the wine world - which poison populations, soils, air and water. Concurrently, the cellar has forbidden the use of yeasts, dyes, enzymes, tannins and other industrial biochemical adjuvants. Finally, Avignonesi is vigorously pursuing an energy transition policy to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions drastically.

Convinced that there are no great wines without good grapes, Virginie focused her efforts on rehabilitating viticulture while giving the cellar a more supervisory role than interventionist.

Beyond giving back his rights to nature, Avignonesi also fosters the authenticity of its products. Virginie Saverys and her team have developed a modern style of wine refreshing, fruit-driven where elegance prevails. In short, wines that are a pleasure to drink.

The Avignonesi owns about 444 acres of vineyards fully certified organic and biodynamic. All wines are vegan and are made exclusively with grapes cultivated on the estate.

Grape / Blend
49.58% Sangiovese, 50.42% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Origin
Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
This risk-rewarding wine is for bullish producers only. In fact in 2014 Grifi was not produced due to adverse climate conditions. An incredible blend where Sangiovese’s freshness perfectly merges with the Cabernet Sauvignon’s backbone. Another fine example of a great blend for ageing.

The assembly of two such different personalities such as Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon blend together, giving this wine a unique character. Dark ruby red in color with purple reflections, the nose opens with notes of blueberries, blackberries and incense going up to sandalwood and graphite. In the mouth it is dense and complex with hints of blackberry jam and cinnamon. It then evolves like a balsamic explosion supported by good acidity. The lively tannin all over the palate accompanies the savory and persistent finish.

94 Points - James Suckling (2017)
This shows balance and refinement, even though it’s tannic and structured. Medium-to full-bodied, long and linear. Really brings you through the glass. Smoky at the end with some wet-earth undertones. From biodynamically grown grapes. Better after 2022.

92 Points - James Suckling
A beautiful Rosso di Montepulciano with fresh cherry, orange-peel and floral character. It’s medium-bodied with fine, delicate tannins and a citrusy undertone at the finish. 100% sangiovese. From organically grown grapes.

Product size: 750ml