Frescobaldi Tenuta CastelGiocondo Ripe al Convento Riserva 2018

Winery Background and History

Tenuta CastelGiocondo, nestled in Montalcino, is one of the Frescobaldi family’s historic estates, with roots dating back to the Renaissance. Ripe al Convento is a distinguished Riserva, showcasing the finest Sangiovese from a specially selected vineyard within the estate. This wine embodies the Frescobaldi legacy of combining terroir-driven tradition with refined elegance.

Producer and Wine Maker

Crafted by Frescobaldi’s skilled winemaking team, this Riserva receives exceptional attention at every vinification step—from strict grape selection to controlled fermentation and barrel aging—reflecting the estate’s high standards and craftsmanship.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Sangiovese grapes are grown in the Ripe al Convento vineyard, situated at 450 m elevation with southwest exposure on marly, shale-rich soils. The terroir’s altitude and soil structure foster aromatics, clarity, and longevity in the wine.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Hand-harvested and gently sorted grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation with frequent pump-overs, particularly early in the process to extract optimal structure and color. The wine is aged partly in Slavonian and French oak barrels for two years, followed by extended bottle aging.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby color. The nose unfolds with ripe red and black fruits—blackberry and Morello cherry—interwoven with exotic spices, leather, balsamic tones, tobacco, and earthy nuances. The palate delivers savory layers, supple tannins, and a long, elegant finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal with rich Tuscan dishes such as roasted meats, braised game, aged cheeses, and hearty stews—the wine’s depth, savory spine, and tannin structure complement robust flavors beautifully.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Best served at 16–18 °C in a large Bordeaux-style glass. Decanting for 30–60 minutes is recommended to allow aromatic expression and soften tannic structure. (General recommend based on style.)

Storage and Aging Potential

This Riserva boasts impressive aging potential—elegant now but also capable of evolving gracefully for 10–20 years, unveiling complex secondary and tertiary notes.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Sangiovese Grosso, as per standard for Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approx. 15.0%

Scores

Sorted by highest to lowest:

• Wine Spectator: 94 points 

• Decanter: 94 points 

• James Suckling: 92 points 

• Robert Parker (Wine Advocate): 91 points