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WINES OF CENTRAL ITALY
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Pratesi
Based in Carmignano, Pratesi is a small, family-owned estate of about 50 acres that began bottling and
selling its wine in 1983. In 1997, Fabrizio Pratesi took over the winery and shortly thereafter modified its
production philosophy under the guidance of Stefano Chioccioli, a well-known consulting oenologist
and agronomist. Together they decided to plant new vineyards at a greater density of 4,200 vines per
acre, enabling them to dramatically reduce the yields and boost the flavor concentration in the grapes.
Since the Renaissance, Carmignano has had a reputation for producing excellent wines and today Pratesi
produces rich, flavorful, elegant wines that carry on this tradition.
“Locorosso” Sangiovese Toscana IGT
Made from 100% Sangiovese which is hand-harvested from estate vineyards in early October, the
grapes are crushed and macerated for a period of 20 days to extract greater color and aroma
concentration. Locorosso rests in stainless steel tanks for 18 months and then in bottle for six months to
soften and integrate the tannins.
“Carmione” Carmignano DOCG
This wine is based on a majority component of Sangiovese, which is balanced by smaller amounts of
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. After fermentation, the wine is matured in barriques to add layers
of complexity and to soften the tannins. The final product is a perfect example of the indelebile link
between the grower’s respect for the land and the manifestation of terroir in the bottle.