Castello Vicchiomaggio, Agostino Petri, Chianti Classico, Riserva

• Vintage: 2017
• Origin: Chianti Classico region, Italy
• Taste guide: A perfumed and elegant wine, showing aromas of dark cherry and violet complemented by a touch of cedar. Medium-full bodied, opulent Chianti with elegant tannins enveloping the layers of fruit through to a smooth and velvety finish.
• Varietal blend: Sangiovese 90%, Canaiolo 5%, Cabernet Sauvignon 5%

• 750ml - 14% - Traditional Cork Opening
• Superb Score & Reviews on Vivino.com
• Food pairings: Pairs wonderfully with beef and strong-flavoured sauce dishes or aged cheeses.

The historical origins of Castello Vicchiomaggio can be traced back to the 5th century. The present owners, the Matta family, acquired the property in 1964 and restored it back to its former splendour. The 150-hectare estate is one of the largest in the area, and of these, 32 hectares are dedicated to the vine. Castello Vicchiomaggio produces several styles of wine, from the traditional to the innovative. To achieve this, the estate has been carefully classified according to its soil type and exposure and is cultivated sustainably, as certified by the VIVA certification. All winemaking is supervised by John Matta and his wines bear the all hallmarks of stylish elegance and are beautifully balanced. His wines truly express the Sangiovese grape at its best. Vicchiomaggio is consistently classified amongst Italy's top estates and John Matta has been named IWSC Italian Winemaker of the Year four times.

The grapes are sourced from the Agostino Petri vineyard, located in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. It sits at an altitude of 255 to 265 metres above sea level. Planted at a density of 5,600 vines per hectare, the vines are pruned according to the single Guyot method which ensures low yields of approximately 40 hectolitres per hectare. The soils are made up of a high proportion of heavy clay- approximately 30%, which is renowned for its cooling properties and water retention for the vine, as well as for producing bold wines from the Sangiovese grape. The vineyard is managed sustainably.

The grapes were harvested by hand at optimal maturity and carefully sorted. Fermentation took place in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks of 50 hectolitres, with a minimum of 15 days’ maceration on the skins to extract colour, flavour and fine tannins. The wine was matured initially in French oak second use barriques (previously used for La Prima Gran Selezione); and then in large oak barrels of 25 to 50 hectolitres lasting 18 months in total. The wine was then cellared in the bottle for a further four to six months prior to release.

£16-£27 elsewhere depending on vintage… just £15.89 is amazing value for a quality Chianti.