Ca’Marcanda, ‘Vistamare’ 2017

Tuscany’s Maremma area, south of Livorno, is one of Italy’s most dynamic wine regions. Ca’Marcanda, the Gaja family’s wine estate is located in the famed Bolgheri district in the commune of Castagato Carduci. Bolgheri’s hot summer days, freshened by brisk sea air and cool nights, create an ideal climate for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese and Syrah wines. The estate is characterised by two distinct soil types – terre brune (dark soil), predominantly loam and clay, and terre chiare (white soil), which is richer in limestone and filled with stones and pebbles.

“This is this publication’s first review for Vistamare, which has been produced since 2009. The 2017 Vistamare is a blend of 45% Vermentino, 40% Viognier and 15% Fiano. The Vermentino and Fiano are fermented in stainless steel, while the Viognier goes into wood—some with lees aging and some not, to avoid it being too heavy and fat. The vines are shaded, thanks to the leafy canopy (with a view of the sea in Bibbona, hence the name “vistamare”), to keep the fruit cool and to preserve the acidity. The 2017 vintage shows concentrated freshness with Mediterranean notes of mint and sage.”

• – 91+ Pts, Wine Advocate