Luigi d'Alessandro (Manzano)
History and Background
Tenimenti Luigi d'Alessandro, located in the Cortona region of Tuscany, Italy, was founded in the mid-20th century by the d'Alessandro family. The estate is known for its exceptional Syrah wines, which reflect the unique terroir of the region. Tenimenti Luigi d'Alessandro's commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a prestigious reputation among Italian wine producers.
Vineyards and Terroir
Luigi d'Alessandro (Manzano)'s vineyards are located in the Cortona area of Tuscany, Italy, covering approximately 30 hectares:
- Soil Composition: The soils are predominantly clay and silt with a presence of gravel. This composition provides excellent drainage and moderate fertility, which stresses the vines just enough to enhance the concentration of flavors in the grapes, contributing to the robust and complex profiles of the wines.
- Grape Varieties: The estate primarily grows Syrah, which has found a remarkable expression in this part of Tuscany. Producing primarily red wines, these reflect unique terroir characteristics such as distinct peppery notes, vibrant acidity, and rich dark fruit flavors that distinguish them from Syrah produced in other parts of the world.
Wine Style and Production
- Key Characteristics: Luigi d'Alessandro (Manzano)'s wines are renowned for their robust elegance and complexity, characterized primarily by rich flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and spice. They tend to have a medium to full body, supported by pronounced acidity and firm tannins which contribute to their notable aging potential. The typical aromas include enticing notes of tobacco and cedar, woven seamlessly with the fruitier elements.
- Winemaking Philosophy: The winemaking philosophy at Luigi d'Alessandro (Manzano) is deeply rooted in the expression of their distinctive terroir, marrying traditional methods with modern innovation. The estate is committed to sustainable and organic farming practices, aiming to produce wines that are true reflections of their origin. Integral to this philosophy is the meticulous management of the vineyard, including practices like hand-harvesting and green harvesting, both crucial in achieving the highest quality of grapes.
- Influence on Style and Quality: The style and quality of Luigi d'Alessandro (Manzano)'s wines are significantly influenced by their rigorous vineyard management and attentive production techniques. The focus on maintaining a high acidity level in the wines enhances their freshness and structural integrity, making them well-suited for long-term aging. Additionally, the selective use of French oak barrels for aging introduces layers of complexity and sophistication. This deliberate and focused approach ensures the production of wines that are both powerful and refined, with a reputation for depth, elegance, and longevity.
Reputation
Luigi d'Alessandro, based in the Manzano region, has gained a notable reputation as a prestigious wine producer primarily for their dedication to the cultivation and propagation of Syrah in Italy. Unique for championing Syrah in a region traditionally not known for this varietal, the estate has showcased the potential of the Cortona area in producing wines that can stand alongside the more renowned Syrah-producing regions globally.
Their bold move to focus on a non-native varietal and successfully coax out its exceptional qualities is bolstered by meticulous vineyard management and innovative winemaking techniques. The unique microclimate of Manzano, influenced by both the Mediterranean and the local terroir, plays a crucial role in the resulting quality of their wines. This combination of geographical benefits and foresighted winemaking has allowed Luigi d'Alessandro to position themselves prominently both in domestic and international wine circles, garnering accolades and recognition for their exceptional Syrah wines. These elements collectively contribute significantly to their prestige and set them apart in the crowded wine industry.
Final Thoughts
Luigi d'Alessandro (Manzano) has distinguished itself as a prominent figure in the Italian wine landscape, particularly noted for its exceptional approach to the cultivation and production of Syrah, an endeavor that positions it as a trailblazer in the Cortona DOC area. Successfully marrying tradition with innovation, the winery is renowned for transforming the perception of Italian Syrah, showcasing the unique terroir and climate of the region through meticulously crafted vintages that express both power and finesse. Under the guidance of the d'Alessandro family, with notable consultancy from leading oenologist Luca Currado, the estate has achieved critical acclaim, further solidifying its reputation through eco-friendly practices that emphasize sustainability and respect for the land. Their persistent excellence and dedication to quality have not only elevated the status of local Syrah but also have set a benchmark for organic viticulture in Italy, making Luigi d'Alessandro (Manzano) a venerable symbol of Italian wine innovation and excellence.