Don Vincenzo Chianti Classico Riserva (1992)
SommeliAI Insights
A mature Chianti Classico Riserva with complex aromas of leather, dried fruit, and subtle spice.
About this wine
The 1992 Don Vincenzo Chianti Classico Riserva from Casaloste is a testament to the aging potential of Sangiovese. After over three decades, this wine presents a bouquet of dried cherries, leather, and earthy undertones. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of mature red fruit flavors, complemented by hints of tobacco and a touch of spice. The tannins have softened beautifully, providing a smooth and lingering finish. This vintage reflects the traditional winemaking practices of the Chianti Classico region, showcasing the depth and complexity that come with time.
About the grape
Sangiovese, whose name means "Blood of Jupiter," is a grape with deep roots in Italy, particularly in Tuscany's Chianti Classico region. Its cultivation in this area dates back to at least the 13th century, and it has been the primary grape in Chianti wines since the 19th century. In 1872, Baron Bettino Ricasoli established a blend for Chianti that emphasized Sangiovese for its aromatic qualities, complemented by other local varieties. Over time, regulations evolved to require Chianti Classico wines to contain at least 80% Sangiovese, highlighting its significance in the region's winemaking tradition.
Quick facts
- 🐓 The black rooster, or 'Gallo Nero,' symbol on Chianti Classico bottles originates from a medieval legend where a black rooster's early crowing gave Florence an advantage in a territorial dispute with Siena.
- 📜 In 1716, Grand Duke Cosimo III de' Medici issued an edict that officially defined the boundaries of the Chianti wine region, making it one of the world's first legally recognized wine zones.
- 🍇 Chianti Classico wines must be made with at least 80% Sangiovese grapes, ensuring the wine's characteristic flavors and aromas.
- 🍾 The traditional straw-covered bottle, known as a 'fiasco,' was once synonymous with Chianti wines, though modern bottlings have largely moved to standard glass bottles.
- 🩸 Sangiovese, the primary grape in Chianti Classico, translates to 'the blood of Jove,' reflecting its deep historical roots in Italian winemaking.
Palate profile
Producer
Casaloste is a family-owned winery located in Panzano in Chianti, Italy. Founded in 1992 by Giovanni Battista d'Orsi, an agronomist and oenologist, and his wife Emilia, the estate spans 19 hectares, with 10.5 hectares dedicated to vineyards. Notably, Casaloste became the first certified organic winery in Panzano in 1994, emphasizing sustainable practices. The winery produces approximately 60,000 bottles annually, focusing on Chianti Classico wines across various categories.
