The 2021 Carmignano Riserva Piaggia takes its time in the glass, tempting the imagination with dried violets and flowery underbrush that evolve into peppery wild berries, autumnal spices and a dusting of cocoa. Elegant and velvety in feel, this sweeps across the palate, gaining contrast through a core of mineral-inflected yet pleasantly ripe red and black fruits. Tantalizing acidity guides the experience. The 2021 finishes with dramatic length and concentration, leaving a bitter blackberry resonance to mingle with edgy tannins, while a hint of blood orange forces the mouth to water for more. The contrasting nature and sheer depth of the 2021 leave me in awe. Bury this deep in the cellar.

• The flagship wine of Piaggia
• 70% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot
• Medium-textured soil with clay and galestro
• 250 m. elevation
• Southwest exposure
• Vinified separately in small vats with indigenous yeasts
• Maceration on the skins from 18-28 days, with punch downs and pump overs
• Maturation in French oak barriques for 18 months, plus six months in bottle
• No fining or filtering
• 3000 cases produced annually