Carmignano, while relatively unknown in the world’s wine marketplace, was perhaps the original “Super Tuscan” wine. Producers here in the Montalbano hills northwest of Florence have been blending Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon for centuries. Carmignano has been recognized as a high-quality region for all that time, at least by the locals. With wines like Fattoria Ambra’s Carmignano Santa Cristina in Pilli on the market for a very affordable price, the world at large may begin discovering the region. The 2015 Ambra Carmignano is a lovely example of the beauty of Sangiovese given added texture and complexity by the Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose shows pure red cherry and plum tones with hints of blackberry, violets, herbs and subtle baking spices. The vivid red and black cherry fruits dominate the palate and are underscored by subtle herbal, earth and spice tones. This is exciting Sangiovese, with brightness and purity plus a delectably creamy texture. The vivid red cherry fruit carries through the long finish. The blend is Sangiovese (75%) Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) Canaiolo and some odds and ends rounding out the remaining 15%. Delicious now, it can be cellared for another five years and more.
Fattoria Ambra, Carmignano (Tuscany, Italy) 2015
By Wayne Belding