“Benefizio” Pomino Bianco Riserva DOC 2024

Marchesi Frescobaldi / Castello Pomino | Tuscany
Castello Pomino | Località Pomino 80 | IT 50068 Rufina

09020224 · 0,75 l · 42,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

In 1716, Grand Duke Cosimo III de' Medici designated Pomino as one of only four Tuscan regions for so-called "quality wine", alongside Chianti, Carmignano and the Val d'Arno di Sopra – an early precursor to today's DOC classification. On the cool slopes, 700 metres above sea level amongst giant sequoias and chestnut trees, this led to the creation in 1973 of the Benefizio, the very first Italian white wine ever to be fermented and matured in barriques.

At this altitude, sandy soils with good water retention and a south-facing aspect prolong the ripening period and give the Chardonnay a freshness and minerality that are rare in Tuscany – the very freshness that already distinguished Pominos' wines when they were awarded a gold medal in Paris in 1878. Harvested by hand and gently pressed, the must ferments in barriques – half new and half previously used – where it undergoes malolactic fermentation and is then aged on the fine lees with regular bâtonnage, before bottling brings the wine to its final harmony.

Straw-yellow with golden highlights. Fresh and mineral, the bouquet opens with orange blossom and citrus, followed by white flowers and ripe, almost exotic fruit. Juicy and crisp on the palate, with a hint of honey in the finish. A Chardonnay that proves once again why Tuscany has long since ceased to be a classic red wine region. SUPERIORE.DE

"Subtle, refined flavours with mineral and smoky notes, apple, pear and citrus; rich with orchard fruit, spices and oak in the long, complex finish." Decanter

"The 2024 Chardonnay Riserva Benefizio is exceptionally complex and captivates with a smoky bouquet of crushed stones and dried herbs, which gives way to rich notes of almond paste and white blossoms. It is characterised by a wonderful balance, is soft and round, and captivates with a sweet-savoury blend of mineral and fruity aromas, complemented by a fresh acidity that lends it a lively character. The 2024 vintage finishes with fantastic length and sophistication, leaving a subtly crisp sensation and lingering hints of lemon sorbet." Vinous

"A compact and very pretty chardonnay with aromas of sliced apples, pears, light yogurt and a touch of cedar. Medium-bodied with a solid core of fruit and a creamy, textured finish. Tight at the end, with a hint of matchsticks giving it a lightly bitter and minerally undertone. Drink or hold." James Suckling