Chianti Classico DOCG – 2011
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Label
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The Label:
The Chianti Classico label features the Commenda di Sant’Eufrosino, the second of four churches built within the city’s walls. Attributed to Italian architect and sculptor Michelozzo di Bartolomeo (1396-1472), the church was built in 1443 by request of the Canigiani family who lived in Volpaia. One of the family members wished to join the Knights of Malta, a religious order and military brotherhood ruled by a Grand Master that answered only to the Pope. The Knights of Malta required that the Canigianis build a church in Volpaia before joining the religious order. The Commenda was deconsecrated in 1932 and declared a national monument in 1981. For 13 years, until 1993, the Commenda housed a renowned art collection. The Commenda is now used for dinners, tastings and other events and its basement contains one of Volpaia’s barrel-aging cellars.
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The Label:
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Vineyard Profile
- Vineyards: Campo a Pitti, Campo alla Fonte (Syrah), Casavecchia, Castellino, Campo a Prato, Montanino, Pratolino, Santa Caterina (Merlot and Sangiovese), Santa Maria Novella, Vignavecchia
- Cultivation: Certified organic
- Vine Age: Planted 1970-2004
- Soil: All vineyards have light soil consisting of sandstone except Campo alla Fonte, which is sandstone and clay, and Castellino and Santa Maria Novella, which are composed of clay.
- Elevation: On slopes between 470 and 600 meters (1,300 and 1,970 feet)
- Exposure: A range of southern exposures
- Density: 2,564-5,006 vines/hectare (1,038-2,306 vines/acre)
- Training: Volpaia uses cane pruning in all of its vineyards except Santa Caterina, which uses single-arched cane and Santa Maria Novella, which uses spur pruning.
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Vintage Report
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2011 was a very hot, dry year, causing the phenolic phases — from budbreak to ripening — to take place ten days earlier than normal. Rain was concentrated in the month of June and was nonexistent for the rest of the season. Vines were stressed by the great heat and lack of rain, especially in the second half of August where the temperature reached its peak. Harvest required a careful grape selection.
- Harvest Date(s): September 12-October 6
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Vinification
- Barrel Aging: 12 months in large oak casks
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 90% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot and Syrah
- Alcohol: 13.5%
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Tasting Notes
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The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. This is a well-structured wine with a fruity finish.
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Images
Reviews
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Chianti Classico DOCG – 2011 – 90 points – Wine Enthusiast
"Violet, iris, red berry and spice scents take center stage in this delicious blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot and Syrah. The bright, fruity palate delivers wild cherry, black pepper and cinnamon spice notes… assertive tannins and freshness."
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Chianti Classico DOCG – 2011 – 89 points – The Wine Advocate
“…delivers classic lines with pretty berry nuances laced with spicy accents of forest floor, autumn leaf and dried herbs. Balanced acidity adds vigor and energy.”