Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG – 2016
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Label
- The Label: The Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva label features the della Volpaia family coat of arms. The family took its name from the village of Volpaia itself. Lorenzo della Volpaia (1446-1512), an architect, goldsmith, mathematician and clockmaker, founded a Florentine dynasty of clockmakers and scientific-instrument makers that included his sons Camillo, Benvenuto and Eufrosino, and nephew Girolamo. As clockmaker, Lorenzo gained fame and honor with the construction of the Orologio dei Pianeti (Planetary Clock). Lorenzo also built the clock at the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. He was a friend of Leonardo da Vinci and took part in the discussions on the placement of Michelangelo’s David. The della Volpaia family instruments are on display at the Science Museums in Florence and Greenwich (United Kingdom), the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence and the Adler Planetarium in Chicago.
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Vineyard Profile
- Vineyards: Casavecchia, Casetto, Castellino, Campo a Prato, Pratolino, Santa Caterina, Santa Maria Novella, Vignavecchia
- Cultivation: Certified organic
- Vine Age: Planted 1970-2002
- Soil: All vineyards have light soil consisting of sandstone except Castellino and Santa Maria Novella, which are composed of clay.
- Elevation: On slopes between 400-600 meters (1,300-1,970 feet)
- Exposure: South, southeast, southwest
- Density: 1,038-2,306 vines/acre
- Training: Guyot
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Vintage Report
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The year began with an initially hot then rainy Spring up until the middle of June, followed by a hot and dry Summer causing seriously drought-stressed vines. Heavy rain in the middle of September , followed by a drop in temperature has helped the grapes mature perfectly.
- Harvest Date(s): October 3 – October 12
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Vinification
- Barrel Aging: 24 months in oak casks (combination of Slovenian and French) and minimum 3 months in bottle.
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Sangiovese
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- TA: 5.4g/L
- RS: 0.7g/L
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Tasting Notes
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The Chianti Classico Riserva has a ruby-red hue with a trace of garnet. The nose is elegant, displaying hints of spice and fruit. This a well-structured wine with smooth tannins and a long finish.
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Images
Reviews
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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG — 2016 – Wine Spectator – #11 Top 100 Wines of 2020 – 97 Points
Enticing aromas of black cherry, black currant and violet are allied to flavors of iron, wet earth and spice in this red, which is loaded with fruit, vibrant acidity and well-mannered tannins. Shows terrific harmony now, yet possesses the structure to age. The long, mouthwatering finish extends the dark fruit and mineral elements. Best from 2021 through 2040.
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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG — 2016 – Wine Enthusiast – 95 Points
Varietal aromas of violet, plum and black-skinned berry shape the nose on this fragrant, polished red. On the fresh, delicious palate, velvety tannins accompany juicy wild cherry, crushed raspberry and baking spice. It's nicely balanced, with bright acidity.
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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva – 2016 – The Wine Advocate – 92 Points
The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva (made with 100% Sangiovese) offers up a pretty layer of tar or crushed stone upon first nose. These tones, rather tight at the beginning, then relax and cede to plum, blackberry, spice and cured tobacco. The wine is direct and impactful in the mouth with sharp precision and a linear, fresh finish. Pair it with a steak au poivre. Some 60,000 bottles were made.
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Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva – 2016 – Vinous – 92 Points
The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Volpaia is a dark, powerful wine. Black cherry, smoke, licorice, incense, mocha menthol, lavender and leather infuse this virile, brooding Riserva with tons of character. In this tasting, the Riserva stands out for its depth and weighty substance. This is a decidedly virile wine from Volpaia.