Toscana IGT 2002 Masseto

Masseto is excellence in a bottle. A legendary wine, from a terroir with uniquely distinctive characteristics. Unanimously regarded as one of the most prestigious wines in the world.

Obtained from a masterful interpretation of pure Merlot grapes from three subzones of the vineyard of the same name, Masseto, namely Masseto Centrale, Masseto Junior, and Masseto Alto, favored by the coexistence of a mild-temperate climate and breezes blowing near the marine expanse.

2002 Vintage

The year 2002 experienced significant climatic contrasts, with the first part of the growing season being regular and the second half marked by wetter and more challenging conditions. After August 10, agronomic management became crucial to ensure the quality of the grapes, with careful control of vegetation and fruit development. Harvest began on September 4 in the upper part of the Masseto vineyard and ended on September 25 in the central area, allowing for the harvest of mature and well-balanced grapes despite the weather challenges.

Masseto 2002 is a pure Merlot produced in the Bolgheri area of Tuscany, on a unique soil for its composition and microclimate. Even in a complex year like 2002, this wine managed to express the deep identity of the vineyard from which it originates, demonstrating how attention to detail and meticulous care can create a label of great elegance and character. The selective grape harvest and tailor-made vinification of individual parcels maximized the potential of the vintage.

The vinification of Masseto 2002 began with a double manual selection of the bunches, followed by gentle pressing. Fermentation took place in wooden and steel vats at a controlled temperature between 27 and 30°C, with an extended maceration from 21 to 33 days. After malolactic fermentation in new French oak barriques, the wine aged for 20 months, with an assemblage after the first 12 months and a further refinement period of 8 months. Before release to the market, Masseto 2002 rested for a further 16 months in the bottle.

Masseto 2002 stands out for its extraordinary elegance, with complex aromas ranging from ripe red fruit to sweet spices, enriched with balsamic and mineral notes. On the palate, it offers a silky texture, a well-balanced structure, and remarkable persistence, compensating for the lesser opulence typical of more generous vintages with uncommon refinement. Its accessibility from a young age does not compromise its potential for bottle evolution, which remains notable.

Disclaimer

This bottle comes from a private collection stored in optimal conservation environments. It has been carefully examined by our experts, who have guaranteed its conditions and authenticity.