Syrah
75cL * 14% ABV * Cortona DOC, Italy
Achelo comes from the Antinori family’s La Braccesca estate, a 508-hectare property once belonging to the Bracci counts, whose coat of arms remains its emblem. Since 1990, Marchesi Antinori has overseen the estate, which spans the two vineyard areas of Montepulciano and Cortona. It is the latter, with its clay-loam soils, that is renowned for Syrah. This wine is dedicated entirely to this variety, honouring Cortona’s heritage with a name that recalls the Etruscan divinity 'Achelo'.
The 2022 season was warm and dry with a brief June hailstorm that lowered yields but not quality; harvest ran from September 10th to 13th, and the wine was aged in French oak barriques (70%) and stainless steel (30%) before bottling.
The nose is expressive and complex, with violets, blackberry, and plum, lifted by subtle spice, black pepper, and a touch of vanilla. On the palate, silky tannins frame flavours of black cherry, liquorice, and ripe berries, leading into a persistent finish. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, roasted game, or hearty dishes.