2020 Castello di Meleto Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany

di Meleto Chianti Classico DOCG is a classic Tuscan wine that embodies the rich history and winemaking tradition of the Chianti Classico region. Situated in the heart of Tuscany, near the town of Gaiole in Chianti, Castello di Meleto is a historic estate with a winemaking heritage that dates back centuries, tracing its roots to medieval times. The estate’s vineyards are located on the rolling hills of the Chianti Classico zone, benefiting from the region’s ideal growing conditions, including its unique soils, warm days, and cool nights, which are essential for cultivating high-quality Sangiovese.

This Chianti Classico DOCG is made primarily from Sangiovese, the grape that defines the wines of this region. The wine highlights the vibrant acidity and tannic structure characteristic of Sangiovese, along with the depth and complexity that the region’s terroir imparts.

In the glass, Castello di Meleto Chianti Classico presents a brilliant ruby color. On the nose, it reveals aromas of ripe red cherries, wild berries, and plum, alongside floral notes of violet, hints of leather, and earthy undertones. Subtle spice and tobacco notes emerge from oak aging, adding layers of complexity. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with firm yet refined tannins, balanced by its bright acidity. Flavors of cherry, raspberry, and dark fruits are complemented by dried herbs, licorice, and a touch of cedar, leading to a long, savory finish.

This Chianti Classico pairs beautifully with traditional Tuscan dishes such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, pasta with rich tomato sauces, and aged cheeses. Its structure and acidity also make it a great candidate for aging, allowing it to develop more complexity over time.

Chianti Classico, one of the first wine regions in the world to be officially recognized and delimited, is what was originally defined simply as Chianti. By the early 18th century, it had already been identified as a superior wine-growing area. In 1716, Cosimo III, Grand Duke of Tuscany, issued a decree proclaiming the official name "Chianti" for the area surrounding the towns of Castellina, Radda, and Gaiole, just north of Siena.

In the 1930s, the Italian government expanded the Chianti region by adding additional land to benefit from the Chianti name’s growing prestige. It wasn’t until 1996 that Chianti Classico regained its autonomy, when the government granted it a separate DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), establishing it as distinct from the broader Chianti region. Since then, Chianti Classico has no longer been considered a subzone of Chianti.

While many modern Chianti Classico wines are made entirely from Sangiovese, the regulations allow for up to 20% of other approved grape varieties grown within the Classico boundaries. The best Chianti Classicos are known for their bright acidity, supple tannins, and full-bodied structure, with flavors of ripe fruits like plum, black cherry, and blackberry. Additional characteristics often include notes of cedar, dried herbs, fennel, balsamic, or tobacco, making for a complex and expressive wine.