Vino Novello translated means "New Wine" and, according to the law, producers can release the wine from November 4th on the year of harvest. In reality the wine is actually bottled a few weeks after harvest. This young wine can be compared to the French "Beaujolais"., which is also released soon after harvest.It is not simply the fact that the wine is released early that makes it unique; the actual technique differs considerably from that of most wines. The grapes are placed, whole, in tanks where they undergo carbonic maceration, and the juices undergo fermentation without the assistance of adding yeast. The grapes are then pressed, creating a partially sweet juice which will finish fermenting in another tank.This process goes toward creating a wine that is described as "light, lively and fruity", with it being relatively low in tannins. Consequently, it is not a wine to be aged, as it should be appreciated for the youthful qualities that it possesses.Most of the major Tuscan wineries produce Vino Novello, Merlot is the grape most commonly used in Italy, followed by the Italian Sangiovese grape and Cabernet. Bottles should be served at 10C and it is ideally drunk with roasted chestnuts as well as salamis and cheeses. In the past, farmers used to take wine from the barrels at the end of October simply to check the maturation of the wine. However, in 1999 this young wine was authorized by law to enter the market and wine festivals taking place during November are the perfect place to welcome its arrival.