Vigorous and balanced with fine tannins and a savoury persistence, the latest release of Camartina embodies Querciabella’s pursuit of purity and precision. In this exceptional vintage, the Cabernet Sauvignon exudes poise and sophistication, perfectly harmonizing with the unique characteristics of the Chianti terroir. The result is a layered and satisfying flavour profile that truly sets this wine apart, perfect for those who appreciate elegance over power.
Super Tuscan Icon since 1981
Camartina is the flagship wine of Querciabella and one of the Historical Super Tuscans that emerged in Chianti during the late 1970s and 1980s.
At that time, in a bid for quality, a handful of bold producers broke away from tradition by blending Sangiovese with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and using French oak barrels for maturation. These wines stood out for their more sophisticated and structured nature, in stark contrast to the light and breezy reds generally produced in the Chianti region. However, this meant they could no longer qualify for DOC status and, instead, had to be labelled as Vino Da Tavola, reflecting their rebellious spirit.
It is crucial to note that Querciabella was founded in 1974, and the first Camartina was produced in 3,600 bottles of the 1981 vintage. In no time, this wine became one of Italy’s most highly acclaimed and sought-after wines, giving us notoriety and the impetus to strive for excellence in winemaking.
Vintage 2019
Thanks to favourable weather conditions, 2019 proved to be an excellent year for winemaking in Tuscany. After a mild and dry winter, a cool, wet spring replenished the water reserves, which helped significantly during the long, hot Summer. September brought the desired day/night temperature differences, yielding excellent phenolic ripeness. With balmy conditions persisting well into the harvest, we picked the last grapes of Sangiovese in mid-October. Optimal sugar and acid levels resulted in well-balanced, elegant, and complex wines with deep, intense flavours and a refined tannin structure.
Fresh and infused with black currant, cherry, plum, iron and underbrush flavors.
Beautifully balanced, this firms up on the finish, yet reveals requisite fruit to shine through on the long aftertaste.
– 94/100 Bruce Sanderson · Wine Spectator
The making of
Camartina has been about 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese for nearly two decades. Originally, Sangiovese was the dominant grape, but over the years, the proportions switched as Cabernet has grown more domesticated to Ruffoli’s sandstone slopes. The two grapes from our high-altitude vineyards on the hillside of Ruffoli are treated separately from the time they are picked until the final blend is made. With gentle but precise fermentation management in French oak fermenters, we allow for the harmonious integration of tannins and textural development. Only the best lots are selected for Camartina’s final composition and undergo 18 months of maturation in French oak barrels, barriques for the Cabernet and tonneaux for the Sangiovese. After the blending, the wine is aged for an additional 12 months in the bottle before being released.
Tasting notes
Camartina 2019 is an outstanding vintage. The wine boasts a deep ruby colour and a complex aroma combining dark red fruit, mocha, leather, and blood orange with sweet, spicy and savoury notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied and intense, with well-integrated tannins and a good balance of acidity. While it is approachable when young, Camartina 2019 has the potential to age for several years.
