2014 Felsina "Maestro Raro" Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana

• “Explosive, Deep. It Exudes Class From the Very First Taste” ~95 Vinous
• Highly Allocated, Small Production
• Leading Wine Estate in Chianti Classico
• Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles

About the Wine

The Felsina winery, located in the heart of Chianti Classico began its journey in 1966 when it was initially purchased by Domenico Poggiali for hunting purposes. However, its true potential was soon recognized, leading to its transformation into a vineyard and cellar. Today, spanning 500 hectares, Felsina harmonizes with nature to craft exceptional Chianti Classico wines, guided by a deep respect for the land and a meaningful relationship with it.

Fèlsina’s vineyards and winery are grounded in century-old traditions, but they have managed to beautifully balance heritage and innovation. One of the most apparent examples in the vineyard is the Sangiovese clones and rootstocks, which allow for a type of artistry before the wine is even produced. But it’s easy to see this quality carried over to the cellar too. In 1966, Domenico Poggiali discovered the ancient stone cellar of the Villa, a charming space with a large brick vault carved into tuff. By the early seventies, a new underground cellar was constructed and In 1998, the owners embraced technology, investing in steel winemaking equipment to ensure even better wines. Despite modernizing their cellar, the craft remained unchanged as they continued to be meticulous, attentive, and deeply respectful of the land. 

The quality of the wine shines through in many ways - not only in the craftsmanship mentioned but also in the classification of the region where it's made. Chianti Classico stands as one of Tuscany's most renowned winemaking regions, known for its high standards and exceptional wines. Today, it has evolved into a top tourist destination, stealing the hearts of visitors with its superb wine, gastronomic experiences, and reputation as a whole.

In the case of the Felsina, the 2014 Maestro Raro was a perfect example of the quality of wine produced here. Despite the region being a Sangiovese-dominant area, this wine is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. This offers something rather unique and innovative. With a 95-point rating from Vinous, it’s quoted as being, “Raro is fabulous. Explosive, deep and full of energy, it exudes class from the very first taste.” In theory, this could be because of the smaller yield - which only saw a production of only 8000 bottles compared to past 13000 bottles. Smaller yields have almost become synonymous with concentration and intensity.

Aging: After 16-20 days of steel tank maceration, the wines are aged in first and second-fill French oak barrels for 18-20 months. 

Tasting Notes: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s color is an intense, deep red color. Due to its age, it developed mature aromas of tobacco, leather and oak, with hints of herbaceousness.  This maturity is also clear on the palate, it is full-bodied with complex blackcurrant, plum, mocha and lavender notes that linger. 

Reviews

The 2014 Maestro Raro is fabulous. Explosive, deep and full of energy, it exudes class from the very first taste. As always, Maestro Raro is a Cabernet Sauvignon that speaks as much to this terroir as it does to varietal character. Lavender, herbs, menthol and plum build into the huge, tannic finish. I can't wait to see how the 2014 ages. ~ 95 Vinous Media

A tangy cabernet with rose petal, light flower leaf and blackcurrant character. Medium to full body, silky tannins and a fresh finish. Give it a year or two to soften. ~92 James Suckling

The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Maestro Raro is more finessed in terms of aromas and leaner in terms of mouthfeel. This vintage saw smaller production numbers: Some 8,000 bottles were produced compared to 13,000 usually made in an average vintage. The wine offers a very clean and polished approach with blackberry, plum, balsam herb, grilled rosemary and darker mocha. The cool vintage has enhanced the wine's delicate side, making for a charming and refreshing Tuscan Cabernet Sauvignon. ~92 Robert Parker.

This 100% Cabernet has scents of ripe black-skinned fruit, aromatic herb, new leather, baking spice and a balsamic note. The round savory palate offers black currant, stewed prune, herb, clove and a hint of star anise alongside polished, fine-grained tannins. Drink over the next several years. ~91 Wine Enthusiast.

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