GAJA Ca'Marcanda 'Magari' - Toscana IGT 2020 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
Gaja Ca’Marcanda Magari is a distinguished wine from the Ca’Marcanda estate in the Maremma region of southern Tuscany, renowned for its innovative winemaking and commitment to quality. This cuvée blends Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, showcasing the exceptional terroir. Since its debut in 2000, Magari has represented the elegant character of Maremma wines, with its name meaning "if only it were true!" in Italian. The wine presents a deep ruby colour and an enticing bouquet of ripe dark fruits like blackcurrant and plum, complemented by black pepper and floral notes. Full-bodied and well-structured, it features refined tannins and flavours of chocolate and earthy nuances. Rated 96 points by Vinous, 95 points by James Suckling, and 94 points by The Wine Advocate, this versatile wine beautifully pairs with roasted meats and hearty dishes.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Gaja Ca’Marcanda Magari is a distinguished wine crafted at the Ca’Marcanda estate, located in the Maremma region of southern Tuscany. This estate is celebrated for its innovative approach and commitment to quality in winemaking. The Magari cuvée is a harmonious blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, showcasing the exceptional terroir of the region.

Since its first release in 2000, Magari has become synonymous with the elegant and expressive character of Maremma wines. The name "Magari" translates to "if only it were true!" in Italian, reflecting a profound expression of desire and optimism for what the wine can represent—a vision of a bright future.

The grapes for Magari are cultivated in varying soil types within the estate, including rich, dark loam clay soils and white soils composed of limestone, clay, and stones. This diverse soil composition contributes to the wine's complexity and depth, allowing each varietal's characteristics to shine through.

The wine typically presents a deep ruby colour, inviting wine lovers to explore its rich aromas. On the nose, Magari reveals an enticing bouquet of ripe dark fruits, such as blackcurrant and plum, accompanied by notes of black pepper, herbs, and subtle hints of floral elements. These aromatic profiles are further enhanced by the oak influence, which adds layers of vanilla and spice.

On the palate, Gaja Ca’Marcanda Magari is full-bodied and well-structured, with refined tannins that provide a velvety mouthfeel. The balance between fruit and acidity is impeccable, showcasing the wine's lively character. Flavours of dark fruits intertwine with undertones of chocolate, mocha, and earthy nuances, leading to a long, satisfying finish.

Magari is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, game, and hearty pasta dishes, as well as rich cheeses, making it a wonderful choice for both casual and celebratory occasions.

Overall, Gaja Ca’Marcanda Magari exemplifies the excellence and artistry of the Gaja family's winemaking philosophy, capturing the spirit of the Maremma region and offering a memorable experience for wine enthusiasts.

VINOUS 96 points
The 2020 Camarcanda is suave, elegant and wonderfully expressive. Lifted aromatics and silky tannins give Camarcanda tons of finesse. Deceptive in its mid-weight feel, the 2020 is beautifully resonant. Pretty floral and spice notes open the finish effortlessly. The 2020 is without question the finest Camarcanda to date. Bravo. - Antonio Galloni

JAMES SUCKLING 95 points
Currants, rose petals and ink with some fresh herbs as well. Medium-bodied with fine and tensioned tannins that give focus and beauty to the wine. This will come together beautifully. A blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Try after 2028, but already excellent. - James Suckling, Senior Editor

THE WINE ADVOCATE 94 points
Reviewed by: Monica Larner
Drink Date: 2022 - 2035
The 2020 Bolgheri Rosso Magari is Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, with the Franc in a leading position at 60% to 65%. Born in a vintage that saw plenty of sunshine and luminosity from the Tyrrhenian Sea just a few kilometers away, this edition of Magari is especially round, voluminous and fleshed out. The 2020 vintage is considered quite toasty elsewhere in Tuscany, but in fact was more contained here along the Tuscan Coast thanks to steep diurnal shifts between day and nighttime temperatures and a cool spring. The year also saw enough rain at the right moments to assure stress-free fruit ripening. The wine opens to dark blackberry and sweet spice, with a very polished and silky side to robust fruit concentration.


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ABOUT GAJA
Gaja is a prestigious Italian winery located in the heart of the Piedmont region, renowned for its exceptional Barbaresco and Barolo wines. Founded in 1859 by Giovanni Gaja, the estate has cultivated a reputation for quality and innovation, driven by a passion for crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Today, it remains a family-owned business, now led by the fifth generation, with Angelo Gaja at the helm, known for his pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence.

Gaja's vineyards are meticulously tended, employing sustainable farming practices that respect the environment while enhancing grape quality. The estate produces a range of iconic wines, most notably their Barbaresco and Barolo, made primarily from Nebbiolo grapes, which are celebrated for their complexity, elegance, and aging potential. Gaja is also known for incorporating international varietals, such as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, into its portfolio, showcasing the estate's versatility and commitment to innovation.

The winemaking process at Gaja emphasises minimal intervention, allowing the grapes to express their true character. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the fruit's integrity, followed by aging in fine oak barrels to enhance the wines’ complexity and depth.

Gaja wines have received numerous accolades and critical acclaim, solidifying the estate's status as one of Italy's leading producers. The winery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in each bottle, capturing the essence of Piedmont's rich winemaking heritage. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or during intimate gatherings, Gaja wines promise a memorable tasting experience that reflects the artistry and tradition behind their creation.