Description
Without question the 2021 is the greatest Chianti Classico vintage so far this century!
Let’s not over emphasis “Gran Selezione” is Chianti Classico’s most prestigious designation, more so than Riserva.
The history of Italy cannot be told without including the prominent contributions of the Ricasoli family, who have produced wine since 1141. Ricasoli is documented as the oldest winery in Italy and the fourth oldest family business in the world. A beautiful illustration of the family tree in 1584 is one of the first images of the Chianti area and the family archives include export receipts dating back to the late 1600s. However, perhaps the most famous historical contribution came from Baron Bettino Ricasoli, who was not only twice the prime minister of Italy, but after 30 years of experimentation and documentation, developed the original formula for the Chianti wine that became the standard for the region.
The heart of the Ricasoli wine production comes from the Brolio Castello, a magnificent castle located in the commune of Gaiole in Chianti, which was built as an outpost to defend Florence from the rival city of Siena. Within the estate, ancient cannonballs and even more recent WWII artillery shells have been found, evidence of the historical strategic importance of the castle with views of the entire Chianti Classico area. The 3,000 acre estate includes 580 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards, ranging in altitude from 800 to 1,500 feet. Each plot is harvested and fermented separately with meticulous dedication.
97 points James Suckling! This is so classy, with finesse and sensitivity that are so mesmerizing. It’s delicate and almost weightless, with a beautiful and energetic fruit and acid balance. It’s medium-bodied and extremely long. Medium chewy. It goes on and on. Dark cherries, bark and lots of flowers in the finish. Drinkable now, but better in two or three years and beyond.
96 points Decanter! Ricasoli’s flagship wine is a blend of grapes from vineyards in Gaiole on the main soil types of Chianti Classico: macigno (sandstone), galestro and alberese. The fruit is vinified in stainless steel and aged for 22 months in tonneaux, 30% new. Subtle dark cherry and spiced plum notes emerge, followed in the mouth by a gloriously vertical structure where the succulent fruit floats and the zesty edges vibrate with energy. The fruit has wonderful sapidity, and the tannins are supportive but play a background role. Absolute class. Drink 2025-2041.
95 points Wine Spectator! A core of ripe cherry, plum and pomegranate pervades this vibrant, complex red. A balanced version, with a firm grip on the finish complementing its fresh acidity. The long aftertaste echoes the fruit and evokes mineral and Mediterranean scrub elements. Best from 2026 through 2043.
95 points Wine Advocate! Now identified by the Gaiole subregion on the back label, the Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio reveals a beautiful bouquet that is packed tight with carefully ripened fruit. There is a sweet spot in terms of aromas with a hint of candied cherry that is folded into iris root, dried mint and spice. This generous Sangiovese ends with lasting freshness. Drink 2024-2042.