Banfi ExcelsuS 2018

From Castello Banfi, ExcelsuS 2018 is a deep red wine with a complex, expressive bouquet and a powerful yet silky feel on the palate. Aromas unfold with hints of liquorice, coffee, cocoa, tobacco, cherry jam, cassis and ripe fruit, creating a layered profile that feels both intense and refined. Full-bodied and enveloping, it is enjoyable now and offers ageing potential for at least the next 15 years.

The grapes come from Castello Banfi’s estate in the southern part of Montalcino, where calcareous, stony soils shape the character of the wine. Both varietals are vinified separately, with maceration lasting between 8–18 days, followed by alcoholic fermentation and malolactic fermentation in temperature-controlled locations. Ageing begins with 12–14 months in French oak barriques (kept separate by variety), before blending and a further 8–10 months of ageing. Bottle ageing continues for an additional 6 months, and the wine is left unfiltered.

Key features

• Deep red colour with a complex aromatic profile
• Aromas include liquorice, coffee, cocoa, tobacco, cherry jam, cassis and ripe fruit
• Full-bodied, powerful and enveloping, with a soft, silky finish
• Vineyards in the southern part of Montalcino with calcareous, stony soils
• Varietals vinified separately with 8–18 days of maceration
• 12–14 months ageing in French oak barriques, then blended and aged for 8–10 months
• Additional 6 months bottle ageing
• Unfiltered