Dievole Novecento Chianti Classico Riserva 2022

Dievole has farmed in the heart of Chianti Classico since the eleventh century, and Novecento is its Riserva, a Sangiovese-led blend rounded out with the traditional Canaiolo and Colorino. The vines grow on the galestro and alberese soils of the Tuscan hills, schist and limestone that drain freely and reflect heat, ripening Sangiovese while the altitude and cool nights preserve its bright acidity and aromatic lift. Canaiolo softens the blend and Colorino deepens the colour. The wine ages 18 months in oak, the longer ageing the Riserva category calls for, during which slow oxygen exchange through the wood rounds the firm Sangiovese tannins and adds savoury, spiced complexity. The colour is ruby with a garnet rim. The nose shows tart cherry and redcurrant over dried herbs, earth, leather and tobacco. The palate is medium to full, with bright acidity, a fine tannic grip and a long savoury finish that reflects the limestone soils. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. A short decant suits younger bottles. It is a classic match for Tuscan red meats and tomato-based dishes.