Chianti Classico Badia a Coltibuono 2021

Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico constitutes a typical Chianti expression that stands out for its ability to combine a certain complexity with an approachable character. The roots of this historic Tuscan winery go back as far as the 11th century, when the estate was built by Vallombrosian monks as a place of worship. In fact, the appellation "Badia a Coltibuono" means "abbey of the good harvest." The Strucchi Pinetti family, the current owners, bought the estate in 1846, making it an oenological jewel of the Chianti Classico territory.

Chianti Classico Badia a Coltibuono is made from a solid base of Sangiovese to which is added 10 percent of local Colorino, Canaiolo and Ciliegiolo grapes, varieties grown under certified organic practices. The vineyards, located in the municipalities of Gaiole in Chianti and Castelnuovo Berardenga, are at an altitude between 260 and 370 meters above sea level and rest on medium-textured clay-limestone soils. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks thanks to indigenous yeasts, with 3 weeks of contact between the must and the skins, while the subsequent aging phase takes place in 15- to 25-hectoliter French and Austrian oak barrels. After 12 months of maturation, the wine is finally bottled and undergoes brief aging before release.

Chianti Classico from the Badia a Coltibuono winery is deep ruby red in color. The nose expresses aromas of morello cherry, iris, violet, tobacco and black pepper, while the taste is dry and beautifully fresh, with a balanced tannic structure. Tasty in its youth and capable of aging for a few more years in the bottle, this Chianti Classico finds its exaltation with platters of aged cheeses and cured meats or with meat-based first courses.