Volpetto Chianti Riserva 2020

Volpetto Chianti Riserva is produced in the historic heart of Tuscany, within the Chianti appellation area, known for its rolling hills, clay-limestone soils, and Mediterranean climate tempered by continental influences. The vines benefit from sunny days and cooler nights, promoting slow and even ripening of the grapes. This mosaic of micro-terroirs gives the wines a vibrant character, blending freshness, structure, and a typical expression of Sangiovese, the region's emblematic grape variety.

The Sangiovese grapes destined for the 2020 Volpetto Chianti Riserva are harvested at optimal ripeness, then destemmed and gently crushed before alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, with maceration on the skins to extract color and structure. Malolactic fermentation is carried out to soften the tannins and add roundness. The wine is then aged in tanks and barrels to preserve the fruit while developing complexity and balance, before bottling and further aging.

This wine reveals notes of black cherry , ripe red fruits , and plum , supported by floral touches reminiscent of violet, spicy nuances of pepper and licorice, and a delicate oakiness with hints of vanilla and toast . The palate is supple yet structured, driven by fresh acidity and firm but polished tannins , offering a harmonious texture and a lingering, slightly balsamic , and flavorful finish.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!