2023 Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso Cont'Ugo Bolgheri

The history of Tenuta Guado al Tasso and the unique Bolgheri region

Tenuta Guado al Tasso is one of the prestigious estates of the Antinori family, an influential name in the Italian wine world since 1385. The estate is located in the relatively young but internationally renowned appellation of Bolgheri, in southwestern Tuscany near the Tyrrhenian Sea. Since the establishment of the DOC Bolgheri in 1994, this region has developed into a benchmark for modern, top-quality international red wines.

The estate comprises approximately 320 hectares of vineyards in a geographically unique area known as the “Bolgheri Amphitheater”: an open plain enclosed by hills, where a constant sea breeze provides cooling in the summer and a mild winter. The combination of rich alluvial soils and an exceptional microclimate creates ideal conditions for grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. From these, Tenuta Guado al Tasso produces powerful and refined red wines, including the 100% Merlot Cont'Ugo.

Top-level Merlot: the Cont'Ugo from Bolgheri

The Cont'Ugo is an expressive red wine made exclusively from Merlot grapes, intended to translate the elegance and fruit richness of this grape variety to the terroir of Bolgheri. The grapes are grown at an altitude of 45 to 60 meters above sea level, on clay-loam soils of alluvial origin. This combination gives the wine an exceptional balance between power and finesse.

Vinification and aging: precision and character in every bottle

After a careful manual harvest, the grapes underwent a double selection, first at the bunch level and then at the berry level. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, where the temperature was adjusted to the ripeness of the fruit: around 25°C to preserve aromatic freshness, up to 30°C for a more powerful extraction of phenols and structure.

Following alcoholic fermentation, malolactic conversion took place in French oak barriques, after which the best cuvées were selected for further aging. This took place in second-year barriques for a period of 12 months. Bottling took place at the end of January 2024, allowing the wine to fully settle before being released onto the market.

Color, aroma, and taste: a Mediterranean Merlot with depth

Cont'Ugo reveals itself in the glass with a deep ruby red color. The bouquet is refined and complex, with pronounced notes of ripe red fruits such as cherries, raspberries, and blackcurrants. Subtle nuances of Mediterranean herbs and forest floor provide additional depth.

On the palate, the wine is full and structured, with ripe tannins and remarkable freshness. The long finish carries distinct fruit notes, creating an elegant balance between concentration and refinement. This vintage excels in its aromatic purity and persistent character.

Order wines from Antinori Tenuta Guado al Tasso online?

The Cont'Ugo is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse and is available for immediate delivery. If you choose to pick up the wine, you will often receive a nice discount as well. This discount will automatically become visible when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page.

Our branch is located in Dordrecht, almost directly on the A16, and has ample parking. Click here for our address.

Any fact sheets, additional information, and photos of this wine can be found in the tab: Appendix. The full reviews by renowned wine critics such as Robert Parker, James Suckling, and Vinous can be consulted free of charge on our website via the links next to the wine image.

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Food and wine pairings for the Antinori Cont'Ugo

1. Pappardelle with venison ragout
The rich, earthy flavors of the venison combine perfectly with the fruity depth and spicy undertones of this Merlot.

2. Grilled sirloin steak with rosemary and garlic
The juicy texture of the meat and the grilled aroma enhance the structure and ripe fruit of the wine.

3. Stewed eggplant with tomato, olives, and capers (Melanzane alla puttanesca)
The Mediterranean flavors complement the spicy hints in the wine seamlessly, while the acidity beautifully refreshes the dish.

4. Rack of lamb with thyme and red wine jus
The buttery-soft lamb complements the soft tannins, while the spicy jus emphasizes the depth of the wine.

5. Tagliatelle with truffle and mushroom cream sauce
The earthy notes of truffle and mushroom enhance the complexity of the wine and elevate the aromas.

6. Veal shank with lentils and roasted garlic
A harmonious combination where the creaminess of the dish and the structure of the wine complement each other perfectly.