Tenuta Fratini: Redefining Excellence in Bolgheri's Viticulture
Tenuta Fratini stands as a beacon of innovation and craftsmanship in Bolgheri, a region already celebrated for producing iconic wines, where tradition and pioneering research merge to elevate an already celebrated region to new heights. Through its evolution—from acquisition to meticulous vineyard research—the estate has transformed an extraordinary terroir into a cutting-edge laboratory for premium viticulture.
The Original Vision and Transformation
Corrado and Marcello Fratini acquired the estate in the 1990s, captivated by the pristine beauty of the metalliferous hills stretching toward the sea. Initially indifferent to the world of wine, a suggestion from Piero Antinori sparked a newfound ambition in the brothers: to transform the property into one of Bolgheri’s most prestigious wine producers. After solidifying their reputation with Tenuta Argentiera, the Fratini brothers realized that achieving the pinnacle of quality required a radical shift. They sold their first estate and embarked on a three-year study to maximize the potential of their 1,300-hectare property, employing an unprecedented level of scientific precision.
Territorial Differentiation
Tenuta Fratini is situated among the metalliferous hills, with elevations ranging from 90 to 250 meters, just 2 kilometers from the sea. This prime location creates a unique microclimate, influenced by sea breezes and temperature fluctuations—essential elements for producing wines of exceptional structure and elegance. A key aspect of the Bolgheri appellation is the distinction between wines crafted on the hillsides, like those of Tenuta Fratini, and those from the plains. The hilly terrains, with their mineral-rich soils and optimal drainage, ensure complexity and aromatic depth, characteristics that distinguish Bolgheri’s finest wines. This approach traces back to the early vision of Guidalberto della Gherardesca, who in 1816 planted vineyards on the hillside slopes, pioneering a tradition that continues to define the appellation today.
Scientific Study of the Terroir
A pivotal moment for Tenuta Fratini was the adoption of advanced technologies to analyze the soils. Under the guidance of Chilean agronomist Pedro Parra, the Fratini family employed electroconductivity techniques to map the soil's mineral composition and texture, utilizing this method to measure the soil's capacity to conduct electricity and reveal variations in its mineral content and texture. This research led to the identification of 28 highly sought-after hectares, divided into unique micro-parcels based on their composition and oenological potential. Subsequently, geologist Françoise Vannier categorized the soils into lieux-dits, allowing renowned global agronomist Xavier Choné to select the most suitable grape varieties, rootstocks, and training systems for each parcel.
Oenological Excellence
To vinify such high-quality grapes, the Fratini family was selected by Eric Boissenot, an oenologist with experience at legendary Château Mouton Rothschild, Lafite, Margaux, Latour, and numerous other esteemed estates. Eric, the son of Jacques Boissenot and heir to Emile Peynaud’s legacy, embodies the pinnacle of modern oenological excellence. Eric is supported by Emiliano Falsini, a luminary of Italian oenology. Together, they have crafted three distinctive wines:
- Clinio, a flagship expression that authentically conveys the terroir.
- Harte, an exuberant and identity-driven second wine.
- Hortense, the Grand Vin, the pinnacle of elegance and complexity.
The Essence of Tenuta Fratini
Each wine captures the essence of the terroir, featuring notes of Mediterranean herbs, spices, and a sophisticated bitterness that provides depth and persistence.
