Experience the refined elegance of Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, a masterful blend of 85-90% Sangiovese, complemented by traditional Chianti varieties. This exceptional wine boasts a deep ruby-red hue and a harmonious bouquet of ripe cherries, plums, and delicate floral iris accents, with intriguing hints of vanilla and leather. Aged for 24 months, including 12 months in oak barrels, it reveals a velvety texture, supple tannins, and balanced acidity, culminating in a long, persistent finish. Perfectly paired with Tuscan classics like hearty roasts, pasta dishes, or mature cheeses, this wine captures the soul of Tuscany in every sip. Enjoy its vibrant character now, or cellar it for years to come.
Process & Profile
The Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG is a prime example of traditional Tuscan winemaking. Made predominantly from the Sangiovese grape variety (85‚Äì90%), along with a selection of traditional Chianti Classico varieties, this wine combines modern innovation with classical methods. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks at 25‚Äì30¬∞C, ensuring optimal flavor extraction. The wine is then aged for 24 months—12 of which are spent in wooden barrels—to develop its refined character and depth.
Tasting Notes
The Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva delights with its complex bouquet of plum jam, blackberries, vanilla, licorice, and leather. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of ripe dark cherries, spice, and earthy undertones supported by a velvety texture and balanced acidity. The finish is long and persistent, making it a truly sophisticated wine experience.
What Makes It Special
This wine hails from one of Italy's most prestigious regions within the Chianti Classico zone, where only the finest Sangiovese grapes are selected. Its production adheres to stringent regulations, which include a minimum 24-month aging period to achieve the *Riserva* designation. The combination of calcareous soils, sustainable practices, and expert craftsmanship imbues this wine with its remarkable structure, elegance, and complexity. The Banfi winery's commitment to innovation and tradition ensures its Chianti Classico Riserva is both a tribute to and an evolution of Tuscan winemaking heritage.
How to Enjoy
The Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva is best served at a temperature of 61–65°F in a large wine glass to fully appreciate its aromatic profile. This versatile wine pairs beautifully with classic Tuscan dishes such as Peposo (peppery beef stew) or tortelli with ragout. It also complements hearty roasts, game meats, and mature cheeses, making it the ideal companion for a range of flavorful meals. Though enjoyable now, this wine's exceptional aging potential allows it to develop further complexity over the years, making it well-suited for special occasions or cellaring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary grape variety used in Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva?
The wine predominantly consists of 85-90% Sangiovese grapes, accompanied by a carefully selected blend of other traditional Chianti Classico varieties for added complexity.
How is Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva aged?
The wine undergoes an aging process of 24 months, including 12 months in wooden barrels to enhance its structure and flavors, followed by additional time for refinement.
What does Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva taste like?
This wine features a harmonious palate with notes of plum jam, blackberry, and hints of vanilla, leather, and licorice. It has a balanced structure with persistent flavors and fine integration of oak.
What is the minimum alcohol content of Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva?
The minimum alcohol content is 12.5% by volume, as required for Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG wines.
What foods pair best with Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva?
This wine pairs perfectly with classic Tuscan dishes, such as tortelli with ragout or Peposo, but also complements roasts, game meats, and mature cheeses.
What is the ideal serving temperature for Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva?
The ideal serving temperature is 61-65°F (16-18°C), which allows the wine's flavors to fully develop.
How long can I age a bottle of Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva?
With proper storage, this wine can age beautifully for 6–8 years, during which it will continue to develop complexity and elegance.
What makes Chianti Classico Riserva different from regular Chianti?
Chianti Classico Riserva requires at least 24 months of aging and a more stringent production process, leading to a richer and more complex wine compared to regular Chianti.
What is the origin of Castello Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva?
The wine is produced in the Chianti Classico region in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, a region renowned for its rich winemaking tradition.