Riecine Chianti Classico 2022

Riecine was founded in 1971 when John Dunkley restored a derelict estate in the hills of Gaiole in Chianti, and this is its core Chianti Classico, a pure Sangiovese from the high heart of the appellation. The galestro and alberese soils, friable schist and limestone, drain freely and give the wine a mineral, savoury frame, while the altitude and cool nights preserve the lifted acidity and red-fruit character of Sangiovese. Ageing runs twelve months across old stone fermentation vats, amphora and cement rather than new oak. These inert and neutral vessels allow a gentle exchange of oxygen and settle the tannins while leaving the fruit fresh and the site clearly expressed, with no overlay of wood. The colour is a bright ruby with garnet reflections, the nose shows redcurrant, raspberry, strawberry and cherry, and the palate is medium-bodied, juicy and savoury, the supple tannins set against fresh acidity. Organic farming underpins it. Serve at 16 to 17C. It suits pasta with meat sauce, grilled poultry and cured meats.