Coltassala, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG – 2009
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Introduction
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The Coltassala vineyard shares its name and location with a villa. The first Super-Tuscans were created in the 1970s by Chianti producers who rejected government mandates that determined which grapes were required to go into their wine, especially white grapes like Malvasia and Trebbiano. The Super-Tuscans were also treated differently from Chianti, aged in small French barriques rather than in large Slovenian casks. Because they did not follow DOC regulations, the Super-Tuscans were entitled only to the lowest official designation of the time — vino da tavola. It wasn’t until 1994 that the government recognized the high quality of the Super-Tuscans and gave the wine its own category — IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica). Volpaia first released Coltassala in 1980 as a Super-Tuscan. The Chianti Classico appellation followed suit, closing the quality gap between Chianti Classico and Super-Tuscans. Now Coltassala is a Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG cru even though it’s the same Super-Tuscan wine of the 1980s.
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Vineyard Profile
- Vineyards: Coltassala
- Cultivation: Certified organic
- Size: 3.53 hectares (8.72 acres)
- Vine Age: Average of 20-25 years
- Soil: Decomposing sandstone providing light soil rich in lime and texture
- Elevation: 518 meters (1,700 feet)
- Exposure: South
- Density: 5,698 vines/hectare (2,306 vines/acre)
- Training: Cane pruned
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Vintage Report
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The 2009 vintage was characterized by abundant precipitation until mid-June followed by a hot and dry season until October. Ripening was slow due to hydric stress, particularly in the vineyards with sandy soils and a richer texture.
- Harvest Date(s): Mid-September to mid-October
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Vinification
- Barrel Aging: 18 months in new French oak
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 95% Sangiovese, 5% Mammolo
- Production Case Pack: 6-bottle wooden boxes
- Alcohol: 13.5%
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Tasting Notes
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The Coltassala has a vivid ruby color. This is a well-structured, complex wine with an elegant nose and hints of vanilla, cacao and fruit.
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Images
Reviews
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Coltassala, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG – 2009 – 91 points – Wine Spectator
“A dense yet juicy red, with flavors of blackberry, plum and chocolate. The fruit stands up to the tannins, finishing long. This stays fresh, with a mineral aftertaste. Drink now through 2022.”
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Coltassala, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG – 2009 – 91 points – The Wine Advocate
“The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva Coltassala delivers a long array of berry tones wrapped within firm tannins and fresh acidity. It shows enormous persistency and an impressive finish that is silky and fresh.”
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Coltassala, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG – 2009 – 92 points – vinous
“…a huge, powerful wine for this estate. Tobacco, smoke, incense, dark red cherries and cedar are some of the many notes that come to life in this gorgeous Chianti Classico. The 2009 needs time, but it has plenty to offer…”