An accessible example of the unique style and character of Castello di Monsanto wines. This multi-faceted wine can be enjoyed straight away or left to develop and evolve as the years roll by. It is our most widely produced wine by far, underlining our winery’s belief in Sangiovese, which acquires a strength and energy from our soil that must be patiently awaited. One of the oldest wines in Italy, it appeared on the market in the 1960s and has become an ambassador for the entire denomination around the world.
Designation
Chianti Classico D.O.C.G. Riserva
First year of production
1962
Grape varieties
90% Sangiovese - 10% Colorino and Canaiolo
Training system
Guyot and spurred cordon
Vinification
In temperature controlled truncated conical steel vats with emptying system (Délestage) and pumping over for about 18/20 days.
96 pt
The WineKiller
94 pt
Wine Enthusiast
93+ pt
Vinous
94 pt
James Suckling
95 pt
Wines Critic
93 pt
Robert Parker
92 pt Outstanding wine under 35$
Wine Spectator
4 VITI
Guida Vitae
Climate trend
The meteorological trend in 2020 was characterized by scarce rains in the first winter months. The vines began to sprout in late March in the middle of cold days with temperatures sometimes below freezing. There was frost damage along the valley floors and on the early bloomers. Production was lower than in recent years. Flowering began between 20th and 25th May (depending on the variety) with normal development favoured by an ideal climate characterized by hot, dry and slightly windy days. As a consequence, an excellent bud set was noted which led to a good structure of the bunches, characterized by beautiful elongation and branching of the rachis. Favourable rainfall occurred in June until mid-July. The veraison on Sangiovese began slightly earlier than in recent years. The heat of August limited the presence of harmful insects and brought the grapes to perfect ripeness, also thanks to a sunny September with excellent temperature differences between night and day.