LAST CALL 96 Pt (LG) Chianti Classico!

LAST CALL FOR EPIC CHIANTI CLASSICO

“We are down to the final cases of the Chianti to end all Chiantis, the 96 point 2021 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG! Castello di Volpaia has been producing some of the region’s finest wines for years. Located in the heart of Chianti, Castello di Volpaia is a shining star among the Radda in Chianti estates. They are one of the highest-elevation wineries in the Chianti area, allowing them to create an unique Chianti Classico. Volpaia’s viticultural efforts began centuries ago; the first document that mentions the cultivation of vines in Volpaia dates back to 1172. In 1250, Volpaia was a founding member of the Lega del Chianti (Chianti League).

However, as always, all good things must come to an end, and that’s the case for this epic 96 point 2021 Chianti Classico. We are down to our final cases for this vintage from one of the region’s most celebrated producers. Get it before it’s all gone! ” – Jim Knight, The Wine House

96 Points: “A perfectly dosed blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Syrah, nose with notes of red currant, undergrowth and licorice, with closure of wild mint. It has a juicy, dense and crunchy taste, salty-sapid tannins and a very long persistence. The finish has traces of small red fruits and sensations of toasted coffee.” – Luca Gardini (October 2022)

92 Points: “A racy version, this boasts black cherry, blueberry, violet and iron flavors. Features a firm line of tannins that work in concert with the acidity, while flashes of Mediterranean scrub peek through. Mouthwatering finish. Sangiovese and Merlot. Drink now through 2032.” – Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator (October 2023)

FROM THE PRODUCER

The Chianti Classico label features the Commenda di Sant’Eufrosino, the second of four churches built for Volpaia hamlet. Attributed to the Italian architect and sculptor Michelozzo di Bartolomeo (1396-1472) the church was built in 1443 by request of the Canigiani family who lived in Volpaia. One of the family members wished to join the Knights of Malta, a religious order and military brotherhood ruled by a “Grand Master” that answered only to the Pope. The Knights of Malta required that the Canigianis build a church in Volpaia before joining the religious order. The Commenda was deconsecrated in 1932 and declared a national monument in 1981. For thirteen years, until 1993, the Commenda housed a renowned art collection. The Commenda is now used for dinners, tastings and other events and its basement contains one of Volpaia’s barrel-aging cellars.

COMPOSITION: Mainly Sangiovese and a small percent of Merlot

VINTAGE NOTES: The 2021 vintage began with a rather hot March which was followed by a sharp drop in temperature at the beginning of April. Fortunately, this did not cause much damage to the buds. April and May were characterised by lower than average temperatures and plenty of rain. Summer was very hot and there was very little rainfall. From mid-August temperatures became milder with little rain continuing. The harvest began slightly earlier than usual.

HARVEST DATES: Hand pick[ed], beginning of September to the second middle October 2021

BARREL AGING: 12 Months in large casks

ALCOHOL: 13,5%, RS: 0.5g/L

TASTING NOTES: The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. This is a well-structured wine with a fruity finish.