Chianti Classico Riserva (2020)

About this wine

The 2019 Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva offers a rich and complex profile, showcasing deep red berry flavors complemented by a touch of spice. On the nose, it presents intense aromas of black cherry and spice, leading to a full-bodied palate with a backbone of tannin. This wine is crafted from a blend of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo, and 5% Colorino, reflecting the traditional composition of Chianti Classico. The 2019 vintage benefited from a favorable growing season, resulting in a wine with excellent depth and complexity.

About the grape

Sangiovese, the primary grape in the 2019 Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva, has been the backbone of Chianti wines for centuries, known for its bright acidity and red fruit flavors. Canaiolo, once a dominant variety in Chianti blends, adds softness and floral notes, complementing Sangiovese's structure. Colorino, valued for its deep color and tannins, enhances the wine's richness and aging potential. Together, these grapes create a harmonious blend that reflects the traditional character of Chianti Classico wines.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva from Castello di Monsanto is composed of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo, and 5% Colorino grapes, showcasing a classic Tuscan blend.
• 🛢️ This wine undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled, truncated conical steel vats, utilizing techniques like délestage and pumping over for about 18 to 20 days to enhance flavor extraction.
• 🕰️ Aged in a combination of 3,800-liter oak casks and second-passage tonneaux for approximately 18 months, followed by six months of bottle aging, this process contributes to its complexity and aging potential.
• 🏆 The 2019 vintage received high praise, including a 94-point rating from James Suckling, who noted its crushed stone, black cherry, and fresh flower aromas, along with firm tannins and a flavorful finish.
• 🏰 Castello di Monsanto's Chianti Classico Riserva has been produced since 1962, making it one of the oldest labels in Italy and a testament to the winery's dedication to Sangiovese.

Palate profile

Producer

Castello di Monsanto, located in Tuscany, Italy, was acquired by Aldo Bianchi in 1960 after he was captivated by the panoramic views of the Val d’Elsa from the estate. His son, Fabrizio Bianchi, took over in 1962, pioneering the production of the first single-vineyard Chianti Classico, 'Il Poggio,' and eliminating white grapes from the blend to focus on Sangiovese. The estate spans 72 hectares of vineyards, primarily planted with Sangiovese, and features a remarkable 300-meter-long aging cellar constructed using medieval techniques. Today, Fabrizio's daughter, Laura Bianchi, continues the family's legacy, emphasizing sustainability and innovation in winemaking.