Vineyards
Vineyard number 6 is a select 1.5-hectare plot in the esteemed “Conca d’Oro” (Golden Basin) of Panzano, Tuscany. The vineyard is situated at an altitude of 315 to 460 meters, with soil rich in shale and sand, enhancing the wine’s minerality. This vineyard was chosen for its distinct Sangiovese expression, representing the best terroir for the variety within the estate. Carla is the name of the owners daughter!
Winemaking
Produced entirely from Sangiovese, the wine is a product of meticulous craftsmanship and low-yielding vines. Fermentation takes place with natural yeasts, followed by a careful aging process in French oak, imparting subtle complexity without overwhelming the grape's purity. Aged further in the bottle, this vintage exemplifies the dedication to traditional winemaking techniques with minimal intervention, ensuring a true expression of Tuscan terroir. 3500 bottles produced.
Appearance
Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, showing elegance and clarity.
Nose
Intense and complex, the aromas reveal red cherries, wild strawberries, and plum, intertwined with notes of cedar, leather, and subtle floral hints of violet.
Palate
Full-bodied and structured, the Carla 6 delivers layers of dark fruit balanced by fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. Notes of ripe berries, spice, and earthy undertones create depth, with a smooth, lingering finish that highlights the vineyard’s minerality. This wine is refined yet powerful, with aging potential over the next decade.
Food pairing
An excellent pairing with classic Tuscan cuisine, including grilled meats, game, or truffle-infused dishes. It also complements rich pasta with wild mushroom sauces and aged cheeses, enhancing its depth and complexity.
Accolades
93 Falstaff
92 Wine Spectator
Background story
Located in the esteemed “Conca d’Oro” (Golden Basin) of Panzano in the Chianti Classico hills, Fattoria La Massa was founded by Giampaolo Motta, who moved to Tuscany from Naples in 1989 with a vision to create exceptional wines. Acquiring La Massa in 1992, Giampaolo brought a unique perspective shaped by his experience in Bordeaux and work at top Chianti estates. The estate gained further technical strength with the involvement of acclaimed oenologists Carlo Ferrini and, since 2008, Stéphane Derenoncourt, whose expertise has elevated both the vineyard practices and winemaking approach.
La Massa spans about 45 hectares at altitudes ranging from 315 to 460 metres, with 27 hectares planted with vines. After a decade of research focused on understanding the area’s distinct terroir, Giampaolo undertook a complete restructuring of the vineyards to harness the specific qualities of the soil, geography, and microclimate. La Massa’s wines now reflect this commitment to terroir and quality, exemplified in the Carla—a pure Sangiovese named after his daughter and vineyard plot—and the flagship Primo, which features only Bordeaux varietals, showcasing his belief in their potential in Tuscany. Recognised globally, La Massa consistently receives top accolades, with average scores between 91 and 98 from leading critics and publications.