Antonio Galloni, on Vinous, describes Camartina 2020 as Super Classic. This phenomenal vintage is sure to appeal to the wine’s long-time fans with its bright, vibrant colours, extraordinary intensity, and silky tannins. Characterized by rich flavours, it also boasts excellent ageing potential.
Super Tuscan Icon Since 1981
Camartina is Querciabella’s flagship wine 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 2020
The 2020 vintage in Tuscany was exceptional for several reasons. The year began with a mild winter and early budburst, followed by a cold snap in March, introducing initial challenges. Spring brought wetter conditions, demanding meticulous vineyard management to prevent disease. Despite these hurdles, the summer months turned drier, allowing the grapes to ripen perfectly. Our skilled viticultural team managed the vineyards with precision, ensuring a harvest of outstanding quality. Additionally, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic required us to adapt quickly to new working conditions, making the success of this vintage even more gratifying.
The 2020 Camartina is a super-classic edition of this wine. Cabernet Sauvignon drives the blend, but there is also a ton of site character.
94+/100
Antonio Galloni
Vinous.com
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 2020 is a wine of distinction, dazzling with intense, bright colours and a bouquet that reveals layers of ripe berries, floral notes, and subtle spices. On the palate, it is full-bodied and layered, leaving a long, polished finish. While approachable when young, Camartina 2020 has the potential to age gracefully for several years. This exceptional vintage is a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs, embodying the resilience and passion of our team and the vibrant character of the Ruffoli hillside.
