Frequently Asked Questions
San Felice Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio 2021 is a captivating expression of Tuscan winemaking, crafted exclusively from the finest Sangiovese grapes of the Chianti Classico region. This award-winning DOCG wine, aged 24 months in a mix of large Slovenian and French oak casks, offers a harmonious balance of elegance and intensity. With deep aromas of cherry, plum, sage, and tobacco, the palate reveals layers of ripe dark berries, toasted oak, and a touch of earthy minerality, culminating in a long, velvety finish infused with cocoa and vanilla. Its balanced acidity and firm, fine-grained tannins make Il Grigio a perfect pairing for rich Italian dishes such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina or pasta with wild boar ragu, as well as aged cheeses. A top-ranking wine with 93 points by Wine Spectator and included in their 2024 Top 100 Wines, this Riserva is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Process & Profile
San Felice Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio is a masterpiece of Tuscan winemaking, meticulously crafted with 100% Sangiovese grapes from the estate's finest vineyards. Vinified under the strict DOCG standards, this wine harmoniously balances tradition with modern techniques. It undergoes 24 months of aging in oak—80% in large Slovenian casks and 20% in French barriques—followed by six months of bottle refinement. With a deep ruby red hue and an ABV of 13.5%, Il Grigio boasts a structured and elegant profile, showcasing the best of the Chianti Classico terroir.Tasting Notes
The aromas are captivating, revealing layers of ripe cherry, black plum, and violets, enhanced by subtle hints of tobacco, leather, and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with juicy dark berries, toasted oak, and savory touches of sage and spice. A vibrant acidity and firm yet succulent tannins create a poised tension between elegance and power, culminating in a long, fruit-expressive finish with notes of cocoa, vanilla, and earthy minerality.What Makes It Special
Il Grigio is not just a wine—it's a journey into the heart of Tuscany. The meticulous selection of grapes, combined with expert aging techniques, results in a bold yet refined wine that honors Tuscan tradition. Its rich complexity has earned high acclaim, including 93 points from Wine Spectator and recognition as #24 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2024. The wine's versatility appeals to lovers of both modern and classic Chianti styles, making it a standout choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike.How to Enjoy
- Pairings: This Chianti Classico Riserva excels alongside hearty Italian dishes such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragu, or aged Pecorino cheese. It also complements red sauces, lasagna, and grilled meats dressed with olive oil.
- Serving Tips: Decant the wine for 30–60 minutes to unlock its full depth and complexity. Serve at 60–65°F for the best expression of flavors.
- Aging Potential: Though already enjoyable, Il Grigio will develop even greater complexity with age. Best from 2026 through 2042, it's an ideal candidate for cellaring.
Conclusion
San Felice Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio encapsulates the rich history and artistry of Tuscany. Robust, balanced, and deeply flavorful, this wine offers a timeless experience for both casual drinkers and seasoned enthusiasts. Whether shared at a special gathering or savored on its own, Il Grigio is a quintessential addition to any wine collection.Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wine is San Felice Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio?
San Felice Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio is a premium Italian red wine made exclusively from 100% Sangiovese grapes. It is aged for at least two years, combining traditional winemaking techniques with modern elegance to produce a wine with rich character and complexity.
What are the flavor notes of Il Grigio Riserva?
This wine features vibrant aromas of violets, wild red berries, and high-toned red currants, complemented by flavors of juicy black cherry, sage, tobacco, sun-kissed clay earth, leather, vanilla, and woody balsam. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a balanced structure of bright acidity and fine-grained tannins.
What food pairs well with San Felice Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio?
Il Grigio Riserva pairs wonderfully with meat-based dishes such as steaks, roast meats, or pasta with tomato sauces. It is also a great companion to game meats and aged cheeses, making it suitable for hearty, flavorful meals.
What is the alcohol content of Il Grigio Riserva?
The 2021 Il Grigio Riserva has an alcohol content of 13.5% vol., aligning with Chianti Classico Riserva standards.
Why is it labeled as "Riserva"?
"Riserva" indicates that the wine meets higher aging and quality standards compared to regular Chianti. Il Grigio Riserva is aged for a minimum of 24 months, with at least three additional months in the bottle, resulting in more refined and complex characteristics.
What makes the San Felice estate special?
San Felice is situated in the heart of Tuscany's Chianti Classico region, an area known for its Mediterranean climate, which contributes to the wine's balanced structure and vibrant flavors. The estate is also known for using the highest quality Sangiovese grapes to produce its wines.
Does Il Grigio Riserva have aging potential?
Yes, Il Grigio Riserva has excellent aging potential. Its robust structure of acidity and tannins allows it to improve in complexity and depth over 8 to 10 years, making it a good candidate for cellaring.
How should this wine be served?
Serve Il Grigio Riserva at a temperature of around 65°F (18°C) in a large glass with a narrowing rim to enhance its aromas and flavor profile.
What awards has Il Grigio Riserva received?
The 2021 vintage of Il Grigio Riserva earned a spot at #24 in Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2024, with a score of 93 points. It also received 93 points from Vinous and 92 points from Robert Parker Wine Advocate, solidifying its reputation as a high-quality wine.
What are the key differences between Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Riserva?
Chianti Classico Riserva, such as Il Grigio, adheres to stricter aging requirements (minimum of 24 months) and uses higher-quality grapes, resulting in a wine with greater complexity, structure, and aging potential compared to standard Chianti Classico.
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