Crafted from 100% certified organic Sangiovese grapes grown in the heart of Tuscany's Chianti Classico region, Riecine Chianti Classico is a refined expression of Italian winemaking tradition. This elegant wine boasts a vibrant ruby hue and captivates with aromas of cherries, red berries, and subtle hints of baking spices. Fermented in unlined concrete tanks and aged in a combination of concrete and seasoned oak casks, it delivers a medium to full-bodied palate with well-integrated tannins and a balanced acidity, culminating in a long, harmonious finish. Ideal for pairing with robust tomato-based dishes, roasted meats, or hard cheeses, this Chianti Classico is perfect for savoring now or cellaring for added depth and complexity.
Process & Profile
Riecine Chianti Classico begins its journey in the picturesque, high-altitude vineyards of Gaiole in Chianti. The vines, rooted in a mix of limestone, clay, and marine sandstone soils, thrive at elevations of 450-500 meters, benefiting from optimal sun exposure and cool mountain breezes. The grapes are hand-harvested and sorted, ensuring only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in open concrete tanks to preserve purity and freshness, followed by aging in a combination of concrete vats and large, untoasted oak barrels for 11 months. This method enhances the wine's natural vibrancy while maintaining a refined, mineral-driven profile.
Tasting Notes
Riecine Chianti Classico offers a sensory journey:
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Appearance: Brilliant ruby red hues.
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Aroma: An exuberant bouquet of cherries, violets, and red berries, complemented by delicate floral and spicy notes of rose petals and eucalyptus.
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Palate: Juicy and vibrant, featuring layers of pomegranate, blood oranges, and baking spices. The wine is medium-bodied with velvety tannins and crisp acidity, delivering a lively, refreshing finish.
What Makes It Special
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Certified Organic: Riecine maintains an unwavering commitment to organic farming, ensuring a sustainable and eco-conscious approach from vineyard to bottle.
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Exceptional Terroir: The limestone and clay soils, paired with high altitudes, provide a distinctive freshness and complexity to the wine.
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Winemaking Mastery: A combination of traditional methods and modern finesse, such as fermentation in open concrete tanks and careful use of oak, preserves the wine's natural elegance and clarity.
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Legacy of Excellence: Founded in 1971, Riecine has become synonymous with quality and innovation, consistently producing some of the finest wines in the Chianti Classico region.
How to Enjoy
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Pairing Suggestions: Riecine Chianti Classico's bright acidity and silky tannins make it an excellent companion to pasta with rich tomato-based sauces, roasted meats, or aged cheeses.
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Serving Tips: Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C (60-65°F). Decanting for about 30 minutes enhances its aromatic complexity.
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Occasions: Its elegance and versatility make it perfect for both casual meals and special celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, it's a wine to savor.
Riecine Chianti Classico is more than just a wine; it's a graceful expression of Tuscany's rich heritage and topography. Its balance of tradition and modern winemaking ensures it stands out as a quintessential Chianti Classico, ready to impress enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Riecine Chianti Classico made from?
Riecine Chianti Classico is made from 100% organic Sangiovese grapes, which are native to Tuscany, Italy.
Where is Riecine Chianti Classico produced?
This wine is produced in the Chianti Classico region, specifically in Gaiole in Chianti, at an altitude of 450-500 meters. The vineyards are organically certified and known for their limestone and clay soils that contribute to the wine's unique profile.
What are the tasting notes of Riecine Chianti Classico?
The wine typically exhibits vibrant aromas and flavors of red cherry, cranberry, spice, and floral notes such as violet. It has a fresh acidity, soft tannins, and a balanced structure with a savory minerality.
What is the aging process of Riecine Chianti Classico?
After fermentation in concrete tanks, the wine is aged in large, untoasted oak barrels for approximately 24 months, followed by at least 3 months of bottle aging.
What food pairs well with Riecine Chianti Classico?
This wine pairs excellently with tomato-based dishes such as pasta with marinara sauce, Pappa al Pomodoro, or Panzanella. It also complements grilled meats, aged cheeses, and rich risottos.
How long can I age Riecine Chianti Classico?
While this wine is approachable in its youth, it has the potential to age gracefully for several years, gaining complexity with notes of dried herbs, leather, and tobacco over time.
What distinguishes Chianti Classico wines from regular Chianti wines?
Chianti Classico originates from the historical heart of the Chianti region and adheres to stricter regulations. It must contain at least 80% Sangiovese, whereas other Chianti wines can include a wider range of grape varieties. The official marker of Chianti Classico is the black rooster (Gallo Nero) on the bottle.
Is Riecine Chianti Classico suitable for vegans?
Yes, Riecine Chianti Classico is both vegan and vegetarian-friendly.
What is the alcohol content of Riecine Chianti Classico?
The alcohol content is 14%.
Can I visit the Riecine winery?
Yes, the Riecine winery is located in Gaiole in Chianti, Tuscany, and welcomes visitors for tastings and tours, allowing them to explore the vineyards and learn about its winemaking process.