The Terrazze Chianti Classico Riserva from Castagnoli is a distinguished Italian red wine from the Chianti Classico region in Tuscany.
100% Sangiovese. The name of this Riserva derives from the ancient Tuscan stone terraces that shape the visual of the vineyards and winery.
Form of growing is the Alberello training system, also known as “bush vine” or “gobelet,” a traditional method of cultivating grapevines. This system is widely used in Mediterranean regions. Yields per vine may be lower compared to more intensive training systems, but the quality of the grapes is often higher.
Grapes are picked by hand in small boxes. Alcoholic fermentation is spontaneous with natural yeasts in 1 ton vats. The extraction of color and tannins is facilitaed by punching down. Maceration of skins is occuring very delicately: Berries are falling from the destemmer directly into the vats without passing through a pump or tubes, hence remaining intact and crush solely due to the weight of berries themselves. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barriques
As a Riserva, aged for 24 months in neutral french oak barriques and tonneaux, before being refined in the bottle for a minimum of twelve months before release.
Once in the glass, the wine is medium ruby in color, with garnet hues due to aging.
Now, imagine strolling through an Italian orchard at dusk. As you lift your glass, a whirlwind of aromas whisks you away. You’re first greeted by a dashing cavalcade of ripe cherries and luscious plums, like an exuberant Italian opera chorus singing their hearts out. Just behind them, suave notes of leather and tobacco enter the scene, as if a debonair gentleman in a velvet smoking jacket has joined the ensemble, carrying with him the subtle, inviting whispers of oak-aged vanilla. Then, a mischievous breeze of spices dances in, reminding you of a chef’s secret pantry, with hints of pepper and cloves adding a playful wink.
Taking a sip is like inviting a symphony to play on your tongue. The first movement starts with bold, juicy dark cherries and blackberries making a grand entrance, their flavors as robust and dynamic as a maestro’s sweeping gestures. The tannins are finely tuned and firm, providing a sturdy yet elegant backbone, much like a string section playing in perfect harmony. There’s an undercurrent of acidity, refreshing and lively, akin to the bright trills of a flute, keeping the composition balanced and uplifting.
As the symphony continues, the mid-palate reveals deeper, more complex notes—earthy whispers of forest floor and a touch of cocoa, adding a mysterious allure. The finale is a lingering and satisfying cadenza, where spices reappear with a flourish, leaving a lingering warmth and a hint of sweetness, like the memory of a captivating performance that stays with you long after the last note has faded.
In short, the Terrazze Chianti Classico Riserva from Castagnoli is a grand Italian opera in a bottle, full of drama, elegance, and a touch of playful mischief. Bravo!
Pairs excellently with rich dishes such as beef stew with tomato sauce like the Greek Kokkinisto. You can find the recipe here.