Matteo Frollani VINO ROSSO IGT TOSCANA SCAPESTRATO 2022

The "Rogue" – Bolgheri Soul with a Rebellious Spirit

In March 2026, the 2022 'Scapestrato' (which translates roughly to "The Rogue" or "The Scoundrel") is emerging as one of the most exciting "Super Tuscan" values from the coast. Matteo Frollani—a former professional boxer who returned to his family's roots in the Ferruggini area of Bolgheri—launched Imperiale as a personal project to showcase a more energetic, less "stiff" side of the region's famous Bordeaux blends.

While Bolgheri is often synonymous with expensive, oak-heavy wines, the Scapestrato is designed to be "the rebel." In the searingly hot 2022 vintage, Matteo’s proximity to the sea and his focus on freshness allowed him to produce a wine that is powerful yet surprisingly nimble.

The Terroir: Coastal Bolgheri Grit

• The Vibe: If a classic Bolgheri DOC is a "tailored suit," the Scapestrato is "leather jacket and jeans." It’s high-quality but fundamentally approachable.

• The Blend: Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, often with a small touch of Petit Verdot.

• The Sourcing: Matteo uses grapes from the family vineyards in the Ferruggini district. These vines benefit from the "Refoli" (sea breezes) that blow through the corridor between the hills and the coast, which was a lifesaver for the acidity in the hot 2022 season.

• The Style: Aged in a combination of stainless steel and second-passage French oak. This ensures the wine has the structure of a Bordeaux blend without the heavy "vanilla and toast" that can mask the fruit.

🍷 Tasting Notes (The "Vibe" in 2026)

Current reviews from 2025 and early 2026 describe a wine that is "intensely Mediterranean" and "vibrant."

• The Nose: Dark and Herbaceous. It opens with a "wild" bouquet of blackcurrants, blackberries, and blueberries. As it sits in the glass, classic Bolgheri notes of eucalyptus, rosemary, and Mediterranean scrub emerge, alongside a hint of black pepper.

• The Palate: Concentrated and Fleshy. The 2022 heat provided a "gorgeous ripeness" to the fruit. It features a core of dark plum and cassis, backed by tannins that are "firm but ripe." Despite the concentration, there is a distinct saline mineral streak that keeps the palate feeling fresh.

• The Finish: Savory and Punchy. True to Matteo’s boxing background, this wine has "punch." It leaves a long, savory trail of dark chocolate and balsamic herbs.

📋 Technical Snapshot

Best Paired With:

• The "Tuscan" Match: Bistecca alla Fiorentina or Grilled Lamb; the wine’s tannins and herbal notes thrive alongside charcoal-grilled red meats.

• The Savory Choice: Wild Boar Ragù or Pappardelle with Mushrooms; the "Rogue" nature of the wine matches the gamey, earthy flavors of the forest.

• The Modern Twist: A bold, spicy Pizza (like 'Mangia Fuoco'); the wine’s fruit and acidity can handle a bit of heat and rich mozzarella.

Pro Tip: In 2026, critics suggest that the 2022 Scapestrato is still a bit of a "powerhouse." Decant for 1 hour before serving to allow the Cabernet's herbal and balsamic notes to fully integrate with the Merlot's plush fruit. Serve at 18°C.