About the Wine

This wine is made by one of Italy’s most celebrated winemakers. The Canali Femfert family, who took over the historical Nittardi property in 1981, brought on consultant winemaker Carlo Ferrini in the early 90s. Ferrini earned the title Enologist of the Year by both the Associazione Italiana Sommelier in 2003 and Gambero Rosso in 2000. In 2008, Wine Enthusiast proclaimed him Winemaker of the Year. Ferrini supervises all the vineyards and winemaking at Nittardi.

In the introductory speech given before presenting Ferrini with his Wine Enthusiast award, it was noted that although he works with many of Italy’s most renowned estates such as Mazzei's Fonterutoli, San Leonardo, Brancaia, Brolio, and Poliziano—he never loses sight of “the individual characteristics of a specific region, a specific territory, or a specific vineyard.” 

A little history about the estate that we’d be remiss if we didn’t pass on: Michaelangelo owned it and lived there while finishing the Sistine Chapel. He sent wine from the estate yearly to the Pope. Because of the property's connection to the Renaissance artist, Nattardi pays homage to Michelangelo by having internationally recognized artists such as Hundertwasser, Yoko Ono, Günter Grass, and Dario Fo create the label and wrapping paper for this wine. 2019’s artist is Fabrizio Plessi, a contemporary artist who has exhibited all over the world.

The name Ad Astra comes from the Latin phrase “a rough road leads to the stars.” Nittardi decided on this name for their second wine to honor the process of a great wine: “greatness requires a great deal of loving work and care in the vineyards.”

Ad Astra is an amazing value, approachable but very complex wine. It comes from a great vintage, one that Vinous Media blessed with 94 points stating that “those who find Maremma wines too rich and intense will adore the 2018s for their silkiness and aromatic presence.”

Tasting Notes: 50% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Secret Varietals. Deep ruby red, attractive notes of plums and berries and with a hint of licorice; a fine wine with a complex bouquet. Pairs amazingly with fish and different appetizers.

Reviews

A beautiful Maremma red with blackberry, blackcurrant and chocolate aromas and flavors. Medium to full body with creamy, round tannins that are polished and refined. A blend of sangiovese, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Drink after 2021, but already a beauty. ~94 James Suckling.  

~92 Points, Luca Maroni.

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