Avignonesi, Desiderio, Tuscany 2016

The Merlot was picked between the 8^th and the 14^th of September, the Cabernet Sauvignon was picked on October 4^th. Up to 4 weeks of temperature-controlled alcoholic fermentation with maceration on the skins in stainless steel tanks. Only indigenous yeasts were used. The malolactic fermentation took place in oak. 20 months in 225 litres oak barrels (15% new)

Founded in 1974, Avignonesi is the leading winery in the Montepulciano area of Tuscany. Its flagship wine, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, is appreciated by critics and wine lovers worldwide. Avignonesi was purchased in 2009 by Virginie Saverys, who has brought significant changes to the winery.

She has worked tirelessly to convert the entire property to organic and biodynamic viticulture, with the clear goal of crafting distinct, genuine wines that fully express the singular characteristics of the Avignonesi terroir. In 2015 Avignonesi received its organic certification and is currently waiting to obtain biodynamic certification as well.

Today, Avignonesi owns 161 hectares of vineyards spread out over the Montepulciano and Cortona appellations. Resident winemakers, Ashleigh Seymour and Matteo Giustiniani oversee production, and under Virginie's guidance, Avignonesi has developed a production philosophy based on balance, elegance, brightness of fruit and a strong sense of place.

We deliver throughout the United Kingdom with no minimum order requirement. For Mainland UK deliveries, the following charges apply:

• £15 for orders below £75
• £9.99 for orders below £125
• Free delivery on orders over £125

We also offer the option to collect from any of our shops at no extra cost. All Mainland UK orders should be delivered within 1-3 working days. Deliveries to Northern Ireland, the Scottish Highlands, and the British Isles may take 3-5 working days. For more information on UK delivery click here and for EU deliveries please click here.