On the road to Pomino, I am thrilled every time I discover this unique corner of Tuscany: hills and cypresses suddenly give way to steep slopes, cooler temperatures in summer and snow in winter, magnificent forests of fir and redwood trees that surround the vineyards of Chardonnay, planted here since 1855. At an altitude of 700 metres, the Cru Benefizio, the first white wine in Italy fermented and matured in barriques, was born in 1973.
Vinification and maturation: The Benefizio vineyard is located at an altitude of 700 metres above sea level, with a southern exposure and predominantly sandy soil. The Chardonnay grapes were harvested in boxes by hand with extreme care and attention. Once arrived in the cellar, they were pressed in an extremely soft and delicate way, allowing a good extraction of clear must, which was further clarified after cold decantation. The must thus obtained was placed in barriques, 50% new and 50% first-passage, where it underwent alcoholic fermentation and only partially malolactic fermentation. The wine was then matured in wood, on the lees, with bâtonnage carried out as necessary. After a further period of refinement in the bottle, Benefizio Riserva reached its maximum taste-olfactory expression in terms of elegance and harmony.

Tasting notes: With the 2019 harvest, Benefizio once again tells its story with extreme elegance. Its bright straw yellow colour with golden highlights is a prelude to a beautiful structure. The bouquet ranges from fruit to flower to spice and ends with delicate tertiary notes. The initial citrus scent, reminiscent of candied orange peel and pink grapefruit, blends with the tropical scent of pineapple. The floral notes, which appear later, are reminiscent of acacia, mimosa and magnolia. Time gives a continuation on vanilla, cinnamon, toasted hazelnut and the pungent tingle of ginger. The palate confirms its unquestionable elegance, revealing itself to be structured, creamy, savoury and with a solid, long finish.