Ad Astra DOC Maremma 2018

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Nittardi Ad Astra DOC Maremma 2016 is a blend of Sangiovese (50%) Cabernet Sauvignon (25%) Cabernet Franc (15%) and Merlot (10%). Opulent ruby red colour with a fascinating spice and chilli character.  Blackcurrant and cherry fruit on the nose, medium to full-bodied, soft and round tannins combine with a silky and elegant finish. Delicious served with a plate of charcuterie and hard cheeses, long slow-braised red meat dishes, or with pizza and pasta.

Nittardi is a boutique winery, situated between Castellina and Panzano in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, with a history dating back to 1183.  Ad Astra grows in their Maremma vineyards, which lie some 8 km away from the sea at an altitude of 250 meters. The soil is mostly sand with granite stones and underlying clay. All their vineyards are Certified Organic. Ad Astra takes its name from the Latin phrase Per Aspera Ad Astra — “a rough road leads to the stars”. This phrase is also true for great wines, as greatness requires a great deal of loving work and care in the vineyards.

As homage to Michelangelo, the unique combination of art and wine is still cultivated today at Nittardi. Every year a well-known artist paints the label as well as the wrapping paper used for the Casanuova di Nittardi Vigna Doghessa wine bottles. The collection, started in 1981, includes works by internationally renowned artists such as Hundertwasser, Corneille, A.R. Penck, Mitoraj, Yoko Ono, Günter Grass, Dario Fo and Karl Otto Götz. The English artist Joe Tilson has created the artworks for the 2015 vintage, while Allen Jones painted the label and wrapping paper for the 2016 vintage.

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