Really Delicious Chianti is one of the prizes for being a wine-drinking human.
This wine very definitely falls into this category. It is complex and intense without being too heavy or artificially over-extracted. Elegant and balanced with mouth-watering acidity, this has flavours of cherry, forest-floor, tea leaves and notes of peach. It is the archetypal Chianti with medium tannins and bright acidity.
Absolutely delicious.
The wine is currently managed, very interestingly, by a chap called Sean O'Callaghan. He's originally from Somerset (yes, even with a name like that) and his winemaking career took him from Germany to the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany in 1991.
For a remarkable 25 years, Sean served as the head winemaker at the prestigious Riecine estate, a name synonymous with the growth of Chianti's reputation. In 2016, he bid farewell to Riecine as it transitioned into new ownership.
Despite not being a native Tuscan, Sean possesses an unrivalled understanding of the local terroir and microclimates. His love of the Sangiovese grape has allowed him to be considered an honorary Chiantonian, complete with an affectionate nick-name, 'Il Guercio,' which roughly translates to 'the one-eyed bandit'. Sean's life journey began with the challenge of being born blind in his right eye. He attributes his approach to winemaking and life in general to this truly unique perspective he has worked with quite literally all of his life.
Joining forces with Tenuta di Carleone in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, nestled in the charming town of Radda, Sean has a fantastic palate from which to create his expression of Chianti. This beautiful estate has been in the care of the Austrian Egger family since 2012. Under Sean's guidance, the land and vineyards have embraced organic farming practices, enriched by select biodynamic treatments.
The future is bright for an already shining property.
Region: Tuscany
Country: Italy
Grape(s): Sangiovese, Canaiolo
Style: Svelte, Smooth, Silky, Perfumed, Organic, Medium Bodied, Iconic, Elegant, Complex, Balanced
Best food matches: Venison, Steak, Roasts, Red Meats, Mature Cheeses, Lamb, Hard Cheeses, Game, Fine Dining, Duck
Alcohol: 13.5%
