Gaja Ca’Marcanda Promis 2016, Tuscany, Italy

Our View:

The history of innovation in wine production that lies behind the Gaja name is legendary in the industry. Family owned and first founded in 1859 with the Gaja Winery in Barbaresco, the Gaja family have been growing vines and making wine for five generations. 

From the planting of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay in the hallowed soils of Piedmont to the unheard of blending of Barbera grapes with Nebbiolo, Angelo Gaja has consistently challenged the Italian wine making tradition and mindset, with, most importantly, superb results.

We are proud to stock the excellent wines of the Gaja estate in Ca’Marcanda, Tuscany,  produced from non-indigenous internationally renowned varieties and demonstrating that there is so much more to this wonderful region than Sangiovese, wonderful as it can be! The Ca'Marcanda range which means the 'house of endless negotiations' is so called following the 18 trips required to finalise the acquisition of this 100ha Bolgheri estate. 

Promis is a brilliant example and a must try for Italian wine lovers.

The Wine:

The proprietary name Promis was created by the Gaja family to denote commitment, expectation, fulfillment, and hope. The promise of quality and the reward of diligence and excellence. The grapes are grown in the terre brune (rich, dark soils) which consist primarily of loam and clay.  The 2016 was a fulfilling vintage. Embracing, structured, voluptuous, and lively.

The climate – hot summer days, freshened by brisk sea air and cool nights – is ideal for the grapes grown here.  Promis offers the elegance and suppleness of Merlot and Syrah, complemented by the vibrant structure of Sangiovese, Tuscany’s emblematic grape. This wine drinks well at an early age.

Grapes were grown in Bolgheri and in the neighboring area of Bibbona, mainly planted on dark soils full of lime and clay. The three varieties ferment and macerate separately for around 15 days. Aged in slightly used barriques for 12 months  followed by several months of bottle ageing before release.

Tasting Note:

The 2016 Promis opens with floral aromas of wild rose and violet, then it turns into a more earthy bouquet with hints of maritime pine, eucalyptus, roots, wet stones. The palate is fresh and juicy, with notes of red and black fruits – raspberry, wild strawberry and mulberry. Creamy, smooth tannins. The final is sapid with a peculiar smoky and spicy character. With its notes of rosemary, wild fennel, embers, the 2016 Promis perfectly mirrors the Mediterranean scrubland which surrounds it.

The Facts:

What the critics say: