CuvéeMontalcinoRed

Excelsus

エクセルサス

Castello Banfi

Merlot · Cabernet Sauvignon

About this wine

A Bordeaux-style Super Tuscan blend of roughly 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, produced only in excellent vintages. Complex aromas of cassis, ripe dark berries, licorice, tobacco, cedar and cocoa lead into a powerful, full-bodied, richly structured palate. The name is Latin for 'eminent.'

Beginner's Note

A good entry point for Bordeaux-blend lovers curious about Tuscany's Super Tuscan style.

Sommelier's Note

"Excelsus proves Banfi can play the international-varietal game as convincingly as it does traditional Sangiovese — a Merlot-led Super Tuscan with real ambition."

Food Pairings

Best with grilled or roasted red meats, game, and dishes with dark, rich sauces such as beef braised in red wine.

When to drink it

Special dinners featuring red meat, and gifting to Bordeaux-blend enthusiasts.

Specs

Grape Varieties
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Style
Red
Alcohol
14.5%
Price Range
$85-100

Terroir & Winemaking

A Bordeaux-style blend of approximately 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon grown on the Banfi estate in the Sant'Antimo area, produced only in excellent vintages. Aged in French oak barriques, yielding a powerful, full-bodied Super Tuscan with firm, ripe tannins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grapes make up Excelsus?
Excelsus is a Bordeaux-style blend of approximately 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Is Excelsus produced every year?
No, it is produced only in excellent vintages, making it a selective, vintage-dependent bottling.
What does the name Excelsus mean?
Excelsus is Latin for 'eminent' or 'lofty,' reflecting the wine's ambition as one of Banfi's top Super Tuscan blends.

Want to know more about this wine?

Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.

Talk to the Sommelier

More wines from this producer