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Chianti Classico DOCG
Toscana, Italy
Montefili sits high in the hills of Panzano, one of Chianti’s finest subzones, known for its stony soils and elevated vineyards that yield precise, aromatic Sangiovese. The wine is fermented with native yeasts and aged in large oak, allowing purity and tension to shine. Aromas of red cherry, forest herbs, orange peel and crushed stone rise from the glass. The palate is sleek and structured, with bright acidity, chalky tannins and a long, mineral finish. There’s a lifted, almost floral elegance to the wine that speaks to its altitude. Perfect with grilled lamb, tomato-based dishes or cured meats. Pure and beautifully expressive.
The Producer
Montefili comprises of 12.5 hectares of vineyards planted in 1975 and focuses on low-yielding Sangiovese. Sustainable since 1995, they champion sustainable, integrated pest management and the vineyards are all in the district of Panzano, famed for the finesse and ageworthiness of its wines. The winemaker, Serena Gusmeri, practices low-intervention winemaking with both spontaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. Elegance and structure are the watchwords here and Montefili’s wines have a legendary ability to age.
Sourced from younger vines, the Chianti Classico is 100% Sangiovese and ages for 15 months in oak to give it added complexity and an attractive, spicy hint. The Gran Selezione is sourced from a parcel of old vines and has firmer tannins, more concentration, layers of red and black fruit mingled with sandalwood and I have yet to taste a vintage at the peak of its powers. The Anfiteatro is a ‘super-Tuscan’ although, in common with so many wines from the region, it is 100% Sangiovese. Sourced from a vineyard dating back to the 1980s, it ages for 24 months in barrique. Sangiovese’s classic notes of cold tea, strawberry, pomegranate, liquorice and tomato leaf are joined here by hints of cedar, clove and mint. This is a serious ode to Sangiovese.