Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT.

Vignacatena was first made in 1994, from Merlot grapes grown in the vineyard of the same name, recently planted in the higher part of Tenuta di Lilliano, enjoying southerly exposure and a soil composition rich in heavy stone. Merlot, a grape variety which originated in Bordeaux, is particularly interesting for its deep ruby red colour and the particular perfumes it releases into the wine.

Scents of red fruit, tobacco leaves and pansies, which become more delicate with age (newly threshed hay, butter and ripe fruit), making the wine made from this rape variety special and inimitable.

The difficult aspect of cultivating this grape variety lies, paradoxically, in its exceptional adaptability to various kinds of soil and climate. Without special measure to limit the quantities produced, it is only possible to obtain average quality wines which arouse no particular interest.

After vinification in stainless steel 24 hl containers, the wine is transferred to French Allier and Nevers wood barriques, where it stays for about 16 months. It is then subject to an indispensable period of ageing in the bottle which lasts at least six months.

The first vintage produced is not available for sale. There are a few hundred bottles in the estate cellar for those who wish to try this new product with a few to purchases future vintages.