At its best, Bolgheri offers concentration without sacrificing precision. Camarcanda 2022, the flagship red of the Gaja family's Ca’ Marcanda estate, expresses coastal Tuscany through a carefully composed Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc blend. Dark-fruit intensity is balanced by freshness, polished tannins and a subtly savoury finish: an ample wine whose poise is as important as its power.

Bolgheri's pale soils and the Gaja family's Tuscan venture

Angelo Gaja established the estate after acquiring the property in 1996, following lengthy negotiations. Its name, Ca’ Marcanda, comes from a Piedmontese expression associated with a “house of endless bargaining”. The vineyards used for Camarcanda lie in Bolgheri, on pale soils with abundant limestone, dense clay and stones. This particular combination contributes to the wine's depth, structure and distinctive mineral impression.

The 2022 blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon provides the framework and concentration, while Cabernet Franc contributes floral and herbal nuances. The varieties are fermented and matured separately before they are brought together, allowing the characteristics of each to remain clearly defined.

Winemaking and the character of the 2022 vintage

Following separate fermentation and maceration, the wine undergoes 18 months of maturation in oak followed by six months in concrete. This combination develops complexity while preserving clarity of fruit. The reported alcohol level for the 2022 vintage is 14% ABV.

Expect dark berries, blackcurrant and cherry, interwoven with floral notes, Mediterranean herbs and restrained spice. On the palate, Camarcanda 2022 is concentrated yet composed, with fine-grained tannins, lively freshness and a persistent finish showing a saline edge. Its balance between ripe fruit and structure is central to the vintage's appeal.

Critical recognition and when to open it

Decanter and Falstaff both awarded the 2022 vintage 95 points. It suits enthusiasts seeking a serious Bolgheri red for thoughtful tasting or a meal built around roast beef, lamb or game. Proper cellaring also offers the opportunity to follow its development over time; gentle aeration can help reveal its layers when enjoyed young.