Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 'Berardo'
Toscana, Italy
‘Berardo’ is a single-vineyard Riserva crafted from Sangiovese grown on Galestro soils at elevation, giving the wine finesse, structure and long ageing potential. The grapes are vinified in a traditional style and matured in oak tonneaux, bringing polish without losing authenticity. Aromas of wild cherry, tobacco, cedar and dried herbs emerge slowly. The palate is layered and powerful, with taut acidity, firm tannins and a mineral core that keeps it grounded. The finish is long and savoury, showing the elegance that only time and terroir can deliver. A serious Chianti for rich meat dishes, aged cheeses or cellar ageing. Classic in every sense.
Technical Sheet
The Producer
Marco Bacci and his trio of estates have, in the space of twenty years, positioned themselves at the vanguard of Tuscan viticulture. It is well-known that dogs resemble their owners but perhaps less well-known that wines reflect their winemakers. It comes as no surprise to those who have met Marco that his wines display a generous dollop of suave sophistication. Behind the man, and his wines, however, is more than just chic refinement; there’s fanatical attention to detail supported by technical savvy.
Every choice is evaluated to achieve maximum quality. From the choice of rootstock (up to six in one vineyard) to the hand-selection of staves at the tonnellerie, nothing is left to chance. In 2006 Marco made the decision to craft a mono-varietal Chianti Classico and both it and the Riserva ‘Berardo’ are 100% Sangiovese. Sinewy, decadent and mixing sun-dried tomato, smoke, blackberries and liquorice aged entirely in old oak, it is a stunning example. Corbaia is a blend of 60% Sangiovese and 40% Cabernet aged in 60% new French barriques. It’s my favourite wine from the estate and it captures the essence of the super-Tuscan: a marriage of France and Italy with the elegance of the former setting off the power of the latter.
