Chianti Classico, Riserva, Il Campitello, 2017

From a single vineyard located at 420 metres above sea level, Il Campitello is a blend of 90% Sangivovese, 7% Canaiolo and 3% Colorino, spontaneously fermented for 40-45 days on the skins and then aged in large French and Slavonian oak casks for 26 months before a further 3 months finishing in cement tanks. A thrilling and unexpected wine. That there is no sign of the 2017 vintage’s drought making its mark on the wine is testament to the great quality of vine-growing and wine-making. There is a well-judged resinous quality to this – savoury but seductive and mixed equally with some resplendent fruit: Pristine red and dark cherry flavours dance with warming notes of pine and dried Mediterranean herb. A crisp but elongated, and very noble, tannic structure gives focus and direction to the wine whilst melting harmoniously into the lifted fruit. This is a livewire bundle of intensity and complexity of flavour that is delivered across the palate so seamlessly it never threatens to fatigue. Rewarding and enjoyable now with food but with clearly plenty more to give, this should drink well over the coming decade. Certifed Organic