Castello dei Rampolla Chianti Classico 2021

Castello dei Rampolla is a leading estate in Chianti Classico, in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano in Tuscany, and one of the pioneers of chemical-free viticulture, farming biodynamically since 1994 with very low intervention in the cellar. This wine is built on Sangiovese with a small share of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The galestro and alberese soils, stony schist and limestone, drain freely and reflect heat, ripening the acid-driven Sangiovese while the hillside elevation keeps the wine fresh. Ageing runs for eight months in concrete vats followed by twelve months in large foudres, a combination that preserves fruit purity in the neutral concrete while the big oak rounds the tannin through slow oxygen exchange without adding obvious oak flavour. The wine is medium ruby, with red cherry, redcurrant and plum on the nose over dried herbs, tobacco, earth and a light savoury spice. The palate is medium to full, with bright acidity, firm but fine tannin and a long, savoury, mineral finish that reflects the site. This is classic Chianti Classico with the structure to age. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, in a large glass. It suits roast meat, tomato-based dishes and aged cheese.