1999 vine year

A climatically consistent winter, without significant cold spells in January and February and with many sunny days, favored the work in the vineyard – including pruning, fertilization, and soil cultivation. The vines began to bud in the first week of April. The meteorological course of spring with the usual temperatures and even precipitation for this time of year led to the formation of a water reserve in the soil. This was especially important to help the vines withstand the dry summer in Chianti. The summer temperatures, which were not too high, ensured a regular development of the vines until the color change of the grapes at the beginning of August. At the end of August, some welcome rainfall occurred, replenishing the soil’s water reserves. September was dry and characterized by large temperature fluctuations between day and night.
This allowed for healthy and perfect ripening of the grapes.

The harvest began with the Merlot at Poppi on September 8th and was completed on October 1st with the Sangiovese, also at Poppi. The yield was around 5,500 kg / ha (38 hl / ha).
Despite the high sugar content in the must, fermentation proceeded smoothly thanks to temperature control and the use of selected yeasts.

The 1999 harvest was extremely successful.
The Brancaia wines are likely the best ones so far.