Chianti Classico Riserva

Wines

From rocky galestro hillsides above Gaiole in Chianti, where forest surrounds vineyards planted between 430 and 600 meters, this is a wine built not for tonight, but for the years ahead.

Ninety percent Sangiovese, ten percent Merlot, given extended time in oak and bottle to deepen and unfold. The result is dense and contemplative — black plums and cherries wrapped in subtle pine and dark chocolate, with new oak, vanilla, and a whisper of pepper threading through dark fruit. On the palate: firm, chewy tannins, real density, and a long, mouthwatering finish that keeps evolving.

This is a wine for red meat, roasts, game, and the kind of aged cheese that demands equally serious company. Drink it now if you must — but give it a decade, and you’ll understand why it bears the name Riserva.

Appellation: Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG

Type: Red, dry

Varietal: 90% Sangiovese; 10% Merlot

Wine Details:

Tasting Notes:

Color: Medium-deep ruby red with a mature garnet rim.

Bouquet: Aromas of black plums and cherries with subtle pine cone and dark chocolate notes; new oak, vanilla, and pepper blend with red and dark fruit.

Palate: Juicy and tight, with firm, nicely chewy tannins and real density. Dark fruit is layered with leather, gentle oak, and a long, mouthwatering finish.

Alcohol: 14%.

Serving Temperature: Chianti should be served chilled – 12-15°C (55-60°F).

Pairing: Ideal with red meats, roasts, game, and mature cheeses — a structured, food-friendly Riserva that pairs equally well with rustic and refined preparations.

Vinyard Notes:

Production Area: Gaiole in Chianti (Siena).

Elevation:430–600 meters (1,410–1,970 feet) above sea level.

Exposure: South-eastern and south-western.

Soil:Galestro — clay and calcareous rock.

Planting System: Low spurred cordon technique.

Plant Density: 6,000 plants/ha.

Vineyard Age: 20 years.

Winemaking Notes:

Harvest: Late September/Early October.

Vinification: Fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature (up to a maximum of 28°C). Macerations, depending on the vintage, from 15 to 22 days.

Aging: Extended aging in oak, meeting Riserva DOCG minimum requirements (24 months total aging, including at least 3 months in bottle).

Reviews:

2006 Chianti Classico Riserva – 92 Points – Wine Spectator (Oct 2009)
"This has a wonderful nose, showing rich, powerful aromas of crushed blackberry with hints of dried flowers. Full-bodie, with round, velvety, silky tannins and a long, delicious finish. Rich and balanced. Drink now." ~J.S.