Antinori - La Braccesca : Achelo 2023

Tasting characteristics and recommendations for Achelo 2023 by Antinori - La Braccesca

Tasting

Appearance
The wine shows a ruby-red color with characteristic violet highlights.

Nose
The bouquet reveals intense aromas of violets accompanied by fruity notes of blackberries and plums. Spicy and peppery nuances blend harmoniously with touches of vanilla and black pepper.

Palate
On the palate, the wine delights with its freshness and suppleness, revealing a velvety texture supported by silky tannins. Flavors of black cherries, licorice, and blackberries unfold elegantly. The finish is marked by lingering notes of ripe fruit, spices, and vanilla.

Food and wine pairings

This wine pairs perfectly with grilled red meats and game. It also pairs beautifully with aged cheeses.

Serving and cellaring

Achelo 2023 can be enjoyed now to appreciate its fruity freshness or cellared until around 2028.

A Tuscan red wine with intense aromas and a velvety texture

The estate

The estate is located on the lands of the Counts of Bracci in Tuscany. La Braccesca takes its name from these ancestors as well as their coat of arms: an arm brandishing a sword. The Antinori family purchased the estate in 1990. The 237 hectares allow for the production of cuvées under the Nobile di Montepulciano and Cortona appellations, crafted from different grape varieties such as Syrah, Prugnolo Gentile, and Sangiovese.

The vineyard

The vines flourish on the terroirs of Cortona, benefiting from particularly favorable climatic conditions. The plots located at the foot of the hills surrounding Cortona extend over approximately 237 hectares, offering an ideal environment for grape ripening.

The vintage

The winter of 2023 was characterized by mild temperatures and repeated rainfall, ensuring generous water reserves. Budbreak began in early April in a cool, rainy context. June saw a significant rise in temperatures, while August brought occasional rainfall and excellent day–night temperature swings, allowing for an optimal start to ripening. Harvesting began on September 15 with perfectly healthy fruit that was exceptionally aromatic and remarkably balanced.

Grape variety

Achelo 2023 is made exclusively from Syrah.