If you’ve ever wondered how a single vineyard can redefine a region’s wine identity, look no further than Guado al Tasso. For four decades, this Tuscan estate has been a battleground for tradition and innovation, now epitomized by a masterclass led by Alessia Antinori and Renzo Cotarella. The session wasn’t just about tasting—it was a lesson in how Bolgheri’s terroir transformed Cabernet Franc from a supporting act into a star.
The 2007 vintage marked a turning point. When Cotarella tasted the rich, vibrant Cabernet Franc from that year, he saw an opportunity to recalibrate the estate’s signature Bolgheri Superiore. Previously a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Syrah, the wine had always been a classic Tuscan blend. But 2007’s fruit—bright, structured, and alive—spurred a bold experiment: replace Syrah with Cabernet Franc. The result? A wine that’s both refined and bold, with the backbone of a Cabernet and the elegance of a Merlot. By 2022, Cabernet Franc made up 31% of the blend, a shift that’s redefining Bolgheri’s reputation.
The masterclass also spotlighted Matarocchio, the estate’s single-variety Cabernet Franc line. Born from leftover fruit from the 2007 vintage, Matarocchio was a risk. Cotarella compared its patience to the decades it took for Solaia to become a legend. Today, Matarocchio isn’t just a label—it’s a testament to Bolgheri’s ability to elevate a grape that’s often overshadowed by its neighbors.
The tasting revealed how time shapes these wines. The 1998 Bolgheri Superiore, a warm, ripe blend, showed the early days of the estate. The 2022 vintage, by contrast, was a study in restraint, with lifted aromatics and a silky finish. Each bottle told a story of evolution, from stubborn tradition to daring reinvention.
Matarocchio, born from leftover fruit, became a symbol of patience and precision.
Key points: Guado al Tasso’s shift to Cabernet Franc in 2007 redefined Bolgheri’s wine identity, blending elegance with structure. Matarocchio, born from leftover fruit, became a symbol of patience and precision. The estate’s philosophy—crafting “drinkable but not simple” wines—now defines its legacy.
What’s your favorite way to experience Cabernet Franc? A solo flight or as part of a blend? Share your thoughts below.
Questions & Answers
What’s the significance of Guado al Tasso in wine history?
Guado al Tasso is a historic Tuscan vineyard, known for its exceptional wines and role in Chianti Classico. It’s a key site for understanding Italian wine traditions and modern viticulture.
How long has Guado al Tasso been producing wine?
Guado al Tasso has been producing wine for over four centuries, with its roots dating back to the 17th century, making it one of Tuscany’s oldest and most respected estates.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
