Tuscany is a land that produces wine, generally in small cultivations scrupulously cared for. Special mention deserve the wines of the Carmignano area, known and appreciated since the Middle Ages and made object, since Medicean times, of a legislative protection very similar to the denominations of controlled origin they currently enjoy. Cosimo III imposed vine shoots of Cabernet Sauvignon from France, and dictated rules for harvesting, for reporting on the grapes, repressing fraud and establishing the boundaries of the production zone and the modes of marketing. These tasks are now carried out by a Consortium in which all the wine producers are associated. The "brillante Carmignano" made with the grape varieties Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Cabernet Sauvignon stands out for its bright ruby red colour and its delicate, complex aroma. It is a wine to be drunk with roast meats, wild game and seasoned cheeses. Barco Reale is instead the little brother of Carmignano. Of intense, full-bodied taste, it takes its name from one of the Medici family's hunting reserves. It is made with the Sangiovese, Canaiolo Nero, Cabernet Sauvignon varieties, with small doses of Colorino and Occhio di Pernice, and goes well with first courses, the more delicate meat dishes and side dishes. Made with the same red grapes but drawn from the vat early is Vin Ruspo, a clear rosé. Its fragrant bouquet with pronounced fruity tones and its sapid fresh, harmonic, pleasant taste make it excellent with appetizers, ‘covaccini' and fish. And Vinsanto, made with withered white grapes and aged in casks for nearly five years, is perfect to accompany desserts and cheeses.

For more info
Strada dei Vini di Carmignano e dei Sapori Tipici Pratesi www.stradavinicarmignano.it
Consorzio di Tutela dei Vini di Carmignano www.consorziovinicarmignano.it