Grape blend: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Canaiolo
Aged: 24 months in casks and barriques, then 8 years in the bottle
Alcohol content: 13.5% vol
Acidity: 5.5 g/l
Residual sugars: 0.55 g/l
In the hot 2013 season, the Sangiovese grapes contained less juice but were richer in extract and polyphenols, while the bunches of Cabernet Sauvignon were small and loosely clustered, similar to those of previous years. The base wines macerated at length (for around 25 days) and aged separately; the Sangiovese and Canaiolo in 25 hl Slavonian oak casks, the Cabernet in used barriques. After 12 months, they were blended and spent another year ageing together in 25 hl casks. After bottling, the Chianti Riserva remained in the Barriccaia (= barrique cellar) for a further 4 months. The first bottle was opened in 2016...but in order to taste one of those “hidden” in the cellar it has taken over 8 more years... time and farmers’ patience well spent!!!
Tasting notes from June 2024
Colour: intense, deep garnet red; the copious legs descend slowly and reveal its considerable body. The nose: the bouquet is extensive and varied, offering new sensations every time your nose nears the glass; aromas of tobacco, dried red fruit, dried roses and violets, humus and mushrooms, and even Bourbon vanilla and liquorice, with hints of unsweetened cocoa. In the mouth: dense, almost chewy, but still lively in its tannicity and at the same time with a sumptuous softness, given by the lengthy ageing. It’s harmonious and velvety, with great persistence and a slight edginess that makes the mouth feel dry.
Wine and Food Pairing – A glass of Riserva makes very pleasant company while you have a “chat” with friends, but it can also be paired nicely with pappardelle and wild boar sauce, a Chianina T-bone steak or jugged hare. Another thing that suits it perfectly is a board of mature cheeses.