Sequerciani Libello 2018

Libello is a Toscana IGT red wine from Sequerciani, a Demeter-certified biodynamic estate in Maremma, Grosseto province. The 2018 is a blend of 60% Ciliegiolo and 40% Sangiovese, grown on iron-rich clay and limestone marl soils at roughly 250 meters above sea level, about 25 minutes inland from the Tyrrhenian Sea. Vines average 20 years of age and are harvested entirely by hand.

Winemaking follows a carbonic maceration approach in stainless steel tanks, followed by six months of aging split between steel and Impruneta terracotta amphora. No commercial yeasts, no sulfites added, no fining, no filtration. The Impruneta amphora, a fired clay from the hills south of Florence, allows gentle micro-oxygenation without imparting wood character.

The 2018 Tuscany growing season was generally strong, and the wine shows it: intense ruby color, ripe cherry fruit on both nose and palate, with earthy undertones, licorice, and a lick of spice from the Sangiovese. The carbonic fermentation technique keeps tannins soft and the wine fresh and drinkable. Falstaff scored it 92/100.

Ciliegiolo is an ancient Tuscan variety genetically related to Sangiovese. In this blend it contributes the wine's brightness and red fruit character, while Sangiovese adds structure and spice. Certified organic by BioAgriCert and biodynamic by Demeter.