Nittardi 'Ad Astra' DOC Maremma 2021

From the Maremma region of Tuscany, this is a blend of 50% Sangiovese & 50% Bordeaux varieties. Deep ruby in colour, it has a delicious nose of plums, blackcurrants & liquorice. The tannins have softened and it is now extremely approachable with pleasing spicy finish. Exceptional value.

The name of Ad Astra is gleaned from the Latin phrase Per Aspera Ad Astra — “a rough road leads to the stars”. A phrase that is also true for great wines, as greatness requires a great deal of loving work and care in the vineyards. Ad Astra is an approachable yet simultaneously serious red wine that is also a pleasure when enjoyed young.

Nittardi is a boutique winery situated in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, with vineyards in Chianti Classico and Maremma in southern Tuscany. originally a defensive tower known as early as 1183 by the name of “Nectar Dei” (The Nectar of the God). In the 16th century, the vast property belonged to the Renaissance artist Michelangelo Buonarroti who, in 1549, while painting the Sistine Chapel, wrote to his nephew Lionardo: “I’d prefer two casks of wine rather than eight shirts.” On that same occasion, Michelangelo also sent Nittardi wine to Rome as a “genuine gift to the Pope Julius II”. Today, in honour of that tradition, every year the first bottles of Nectar Dei, the top wine from the Maremma vineyards, are presented to the Pope.