Castello di Gabbiano, founded in 1480 AD, is located in the heart of the renowned Chianti Classico region. Federico has been head winemaker at Castello since February 2011, bringing energy, focus, and a passion for innovation to his portfolio of classic Gabbiano wines. Federico, a native of Tuscany with over a decade of experience working with prestigious winemakers, has deep knowledge of the exceptional Chianti Classico wine region.
For centuries, the Gabbiano Knight, or Il Cavaliere, protected the Castello di Gabbiano Estate. This red blend, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese varieties, pays tribute to the Castello's kindred spirits, the standard-bearers for a noble cause, the dark knights of the Tuscan hills.
This blend consists of 50 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 percent Merlot, and 20 percent Sangiovese from Tuscany. This IGT Toscana wine was aged for eight months in barrels and another three months in bottle before release.
The 2015 Castello di Gabbiano Dark Knight begins with a very seductive Italian nose full of dark, ripe berries, beautifully integrated spice notes, and abundant vanilla. The wine tastes silky, soft, and sweet with tons of tart, ripe berry fruit. The well-integrated spice continues, as do the vanilla notes, leading to a dry finish of lingering cola, coffee, and chocolate along with more sweet berries. It's only 20 percent Sangiovese, but that varietal makes a strong contribution to the Cabernet and Merlot. This is a superb Italian blend and a testament to the power of the Super Tuscan!
