This is 100% Sangiovese, from the estate vineyards in the Pievasciata area of the UGA of Castelnuovo Berardenga. The fruit was fermented in steel, then was delivered to large- format French oak for malolactic. After 10 months here, the wine went into second- passage barriques for a further six months. The soil type and altitude contribute to a wine with more fragrant perfume and fresher structure than many a Chianti Classico, but Vallepicciola’s purposely low yields ensure there is no lack of concentration.
2023
“Aromatic and lifted, with sour cherries, violets, rosemary and mild oak spices on the nose. It has a fresh and harmonious palate showing a medium body, finely woven tannins and excellent balance between fruit purity and savory complexity. Sustainable.” 91 points, James Suckling
“A very stylish contemporary Chianti, but one made by someone who’s clearly in touch with the region’s style and tradition. Its spicy fragrance of redcurrant, blood plum, blackberry and minerals reveals a trace of restrained oak. Spotlessly presented, its intense core of small black and red fruits eases with weight and richness of flavour down a drying spine of crunchy mineral tannins, finishing with purity and a brittle acidity.” 93 points, Jeremy Oliver
2022
Translucent ruby red in hue, on the nose are red forest fruits including a spectrum of currants and plums, offset by alluring violets nuances and the fresh prickle of black pepper. On the palate it’s supple and lithe, carrying these complex characters over a framework of beautifully judged oak. Tannins are silky and partner the juicy acidity beautifully. Will cellar graciously for 5-plus years.
91 points, James Suckling
I Bicchiere, Gambero Rosso
4 Stelle, Vini Buoni d’Italia
2021
Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2024 (#37)
95 points, Luca Gardini, Le Guide Espresso
2020
” Fruity nose of wild strawberries, cherries, orange zest, lavender and rosemary. Medium-bodied with fine, tight tannins and bright acidity. Vibrant, floral and zesty. Excellent energy. Drink or hold.” 92 points, James Suckling
“Taut and vertical to the nose, with fruity hints of wild strawberry, balsamic-iodized touches and taggiasca olive on the finish. The taste is compact, rich, with saline tannins and light citrus returns. The closure is fresh and very drinkable.” 97 points, Luca Gardini, Gardini Notes
