“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 Chianti Classico, where the hills slope gently down 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-altitude vineyards 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 prehistoric 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 – facing north at the top and east 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 barrels made from Austrian oak – 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 produced 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 bursting 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 powerful 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

"A fresh, fluid red, this exudes dark fruit flavors of blackberry, black cherry, graphite, tar and eucalyptus. A dusty undercurrent of tannins lends support, and the long aftertaste is driven by mouthwatering acidity. Shows lovely harmony." Wine Spectator