Chianti Classico DOCG – 2017
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Introduction
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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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Vineyard Profile
- Vineyards: Campo a Pitti, Casavecchia, Casetto, Castellino, Campo a Prato, Montanino, Pratolino, Santa Caterina, Santa Maria Novella and Vignavecchia
- Cultivation: Certified organic
- Composition: 90% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot
- Vine Age: Planted 1972-2004
- Soil: All vineyards have light soil consisting of sandstone except Castellino and Santa Maria Novella, which are composed of clay, and Montanino, which is composed of sandstone and clay.
- Elevation: On slopes between 397-570 meters (1,300-1,870 feet)
- Exposure: A range of southern exposures
- Density: 2,564-5,682 vines/hectare (1,038-2,306 vines/acre)
- Training: Guyot
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Vintage Report
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A record year for heat and drought throughout the growing season. This condition presented extremes which began early bud break in the vineyard followed by a spring frost over late April. The frost effected the lower portions of the Volpaia estate. Spring and summer months were dry with higher than average temperatures. Rainfall in mid-September helped the grapes achieve complete ripeness of tannins and other phenolic compounds despite low yields.
- Harvest Date(s): September 4-September 28
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Vinification
- Barrel Aging: 12 months in Slavonian casks
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Technical Information
- Alcohol: 14%
- TA: 5.5g/L
- RS: 0.6g/L
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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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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG – 2017 – Wine Spectator – 90 Points
Pure and focused, featuring black cherry and black currant fruit, accented by mineral, earth and subtle wild herb elements. Elegant and intense, with a firm, extended finish. Drink now through 2028.
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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG – 2017 – James Suckling – 92 Points
Cherry, walnut and stone aromas and flavors. Medium body. Firm, lightly chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG — 2017 – Wine Enthusiast – 92 Points
Black-skinned berry, violet, new leather and tobacco aromas are front and center. Reflecting the nose, the smooth, approachable palate doles out juicy Marasca cherry, ripe plum, nutmeg and a hint of licorice framed in polished, pliant tannins. Drink through 2024.
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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico – 2017 – Decanter – 90 Points
Despite overall high altitudes at Volpaia, some of the lower lying vineyards were damaged by the late April frost. Along with the drought conditions, this resulted in a reduction of 30-35% of the estate's average production. Up front raspberry notes are joined by a touch of mint which adds intrigue. This gains some definition as it sits in the glass and palate is juicy with a supple texture and balanced ripeness. It has enough structure to carry it for five years.