92
Ian Dagata - Vinous Media
"A blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon. 24 months in barriques and larger oak barrels. Moderately saturated dark red. Enticing nose of strawberry, violet and almond, with hints of minerals and sweet spices. Bright and juicy on entry, with noteworthy precision to the pomegranate and strawberry flavors thanks to high but harmonious acidity. This picked up gamey and truffley notes with air, and finishes complex, rich and long." 92 points - Ian D'agata - International Wine Cellar
"The 2006 Carmignano Riserva Elzana, Sangiovese and a dash of Cabernet, is an imposing red laced with wild cherries, new leather, tar, licorice, tobacco, smoke and underbrush. The Elzana spent two years in oak, which has added a measure of volume. The tannins suggest further cellaring will only be a help, but the Elzana is already incredibly attractive, particularly if given some air in advance. The finish is long, pure and impeccable. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022." 91 points - Antonio Galloni - Wine Advocate
WINE:
"A single-vineyard bottling of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon (Cabernet is required in Carmignano blends), the wine is voluptuous and full-bodied, with smooth yet firm tannins, ripe red currants and dusty cherry, and a clean, layered finish. This wine is an absolute steal for a Riserva Carmignano!"
"90% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet from vineyards at around 150 meters above sea level, the grapes are macerated on the skins for 10-15 days in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks and then maturated for 12 months in tonneaux (3.5 and 5 hectolitres), followed by 12 months in large oak casks and finally a period in the bottle." -Importer
WINERY:
"The Carmignano DOCG region, located northwest of Florence, was the first Italian region to officially allow Cabernet Sauvignon in a blend; the varietal has been grown in the region at least since the early 18th century.  Today’s regulations allow up to 50% of 'complementary grapes', with a required minimum of 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and/or Franc, to be blended with main component Sangiovese.  A cooler area for Sangiovese production, wines from Carmignano tend to be aromatic and fragrant, yet leaner than the wines from more the southerly Chianti Classico regions."
"Fattoria Ambra has belonged to the Romei Rigoli family since 1870. The estate is located near the Ombrone river and the Villa Medicea of Poggio a Caiano. It is named after the poem "Ambra", written in the 15th century by Lorenzo Il Magnifico. The vineyards stand in the hills of Montalbiolo, Elzana, Santa Cristina in Pilli and Montefortini, four of the most important crus of Carmignano." -Importer
This scored 83 points in the Wine Spectator.
