“Vigna Mezzapiaggia” Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vagliagli DOCG 2022 (BIO)

Istine | Tuscany
Istine s.s.a. | Via Roma 11 | IT 53017 Radda in Chianti

29693222 · 0,75 l · 61,33 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping< 24 units available

On the southern edge of the Chianti Classico region, where the hills slope gently towards the gates of Siena, lies Vigna Mezzapiaggia – a name that says it all. "Half-slope" is that privileged spot between heaven and earth where Angela Fronti is undertaking a bold experiment: growing Sangiovese at an altitude of just 250–300 metres, a far cry from the usual high altitudes of her estates in Radda and Gaiole. Yet here, in the UGA Vagliagli, she is writing a new chapter in her terroir philosophy. The two hectares of Mezzapiaggia rest on fine lacustrine deposits, the remains of a primeval lake, which lend the Sangiovese a completely different character to that of the stony Galestro soils of the northern slopes. The clay soils retain water and heat, whilst the unique aspect – north-facing at the top, east-facing at the bottom – creates a fascinating microclimate. 5,000 vines per hectare, organically cultivated in accordance with the strict FIVI principles for independent winegrowers.

45 days' maceration with the cap submerged: Angela applies the same meditative patience here as she does with her high-altitude wines. However, instead of the usual tonneaux, the 2,600 bottles are aged for 15 months in 20-hectolitre Austrian oak barrels – a deliberate departure from tradition for a wine intended to capture the southern soul of Chianti Classico. The result: a Sangiovese of sensual richness and, at the same time, mineral clarity, which proves that great wines are not only made in the mountains, but wherever passion meets terroir. 2,600 bottles will go on sale. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Mezzapiaggia 2022 is brimming with dark fruit, leather, incense, liquorice, chocolate, menthol and dried herbs. The Mezzapiaggia has developed well since I tasted it last year. It offers considerable depth, with robust tannins. This is a particularly bold style for Angela Fronti." Vinous

"A mature, fruity wine with slightly cooked notes, revealing aromas of cherry jam and plums, balanced by balsamic notes. Medium to full-bodied, firm and dense, with robust tannins, crisp acidity and a firm, fairly well-balanced finish." James Suckling

"Drawing its fruit from the Vagliagli UGA, the organic Istine 2022 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Mezzapiaggia is meaty and savory, with dark fruit, earth and plenty of spice. This is quite different from the more delicate and lifted Vigna Istine, showing more weight and darkness by comparison. The fruit feels broader and more concentrated, giving the wine a substantial, savory personality." Wine Advocate

"A fresh, supple red wine that exudes aromas of dark fruits such as blackberry and black cherry, as well as notes of graphite, tar and eucalyptus. A dusty tannic note provides structure, and the long finish is carried by a delicious acidity. It displays a lovely harmony." Wine Spectator