Savor the essence of Tuscany with Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva, a distinguished DOCG wine crafted in the historic Castellina in Chianti region. Made predominantly with 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino, this wine undergoes meticulous aging—14 months in barriques followed by 9 months in bottle—resulting in a harmonious balance of velvety tannins, fresh acidity, and refined oak integration. Its deep ruby hue complements floral and fruity aromas, with notes of cherry, plum, and subtle spices unfolding on the palate. Perfectly paired with roasted meats, aged cheeses, or pasta with rich sauces, Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva is an elegant choice for celebrating both everyday moments and special occasions. Indulge in its timeless craftsmanship and Tuscan tradition.
Process & Profile
The Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva is crafted with the utmost precision and care. Made primarily from 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino grapes, the wine is a product of the historic Castellina in Chianti estate. Only the best vintages are chosen for this Riserva, ensuring exceptional quality. After traditional fermentation, the wine matures for 14 months in oak barriques and barrels, followed by an additional 9–10 months of aging in the bottle. This meticulous process yields a refined structure, harmonious balance, and lasting complexity.
Tasting Notes
Upon pouring, the wine reveals a stunning garnet ruby hue with a brick-red edge. Its aromatic bouquet greets you with fragrances of dried flowers, local herbs, and subtle spices. On the palate, the wine offers a symphony of flavors including black cherries, plums, and delicate notes of cinnamon, cacao, vanilla, and tobacco. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity enrobe the fruit-forward profile, culminating in a long, graceful finish.
What Makes It Special
Villa Cerna Riserva stands out for its historical and artisanal significance. The estate's roots trace back to the 11th century, originally a monastery. Today, its 83 hectares of vineyards are dedicated to producing wines that respect the traditions of the Chianti Classico appellation. This Riserva is crafted only in exceptional years, emphasizing quality over quantity. The result is a wine that embodies the elegance of Sangiovese with a modern interpretation.
How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate the Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva, decant it for 20–30 minutes to let its aromas and flavors unfold. Serve at 16–18°C in a red wine glass. Pair it with hearty Italian cuisine such as grilled pork, lamb, or aged cheeses. Mushroom pasta and earthy vegetarian dishes also complement its complexity beautifully. The wine is drinking exquisitely now but can age gracefully for another 5–7 years, enhancing its depth and character over time.
Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva is more than a wine—it's a celebration of Tuscany's winemaking heritage. Perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners, this Riserva is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grape composition of Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva?
It is primarily made from 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino grapes, reflecting the traditional Chianti Classico style.
What are the tasting notes for this wine?
The Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva features floral aromas and a harmonious balance of acidity, tannins, and alcohol. On the palate, you’ll find flavors of black cherries, plums, cinnamon, cacao, vanilla, and a touch of tobacco, rounded out with refined fruit acidity and silky tannins.
What is the aging process for this wine?
The wine undergoes 14 months of aging in oak barriques and small barrels, followed by a minimum of 9 months of bottle aging to enhance its complexity.
What is the alcohol content of Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) is 13.5%.
What food pairs well with this wine?
Ideal pairings include grilled or slow-roasted pork, lamb, or duck with a wine jus, mushroom pasta dishes with herb sauces, earthy vegetarian cuisine, and aged hard cheeses.
What is the best serving temperature for this wine?
Serve Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva at a temperature range of 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 65°F) to fully enjoy its flavors and aromas.
What is the recommended aging potential of this wine?
While it is enjoyable now, this wine can be cellared for an additional 5 to 7 years to allow its flavors to develop further.
What makes Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva special?
This wine is produced only in excellent vintages and is made from carefully selected grapes. Its deep garnet ruby color, elegant structure, and balance of oak and fruit make it a standout example of Chianti Classico Riserva.
What is the history of Villa Cerna?
Villa Cerna is a historic site in the Chianti Classico region, originally a monastery dating back to the 11th century. The current estate is owned by the Cecchi family, who have been producing high-quality wines here since 1893.
What type of soil is found in the vineyard?
The vineyards feature stony soil with an alkaline presence, located 280 meters above sea level, contributing to the wine's distinctive mineral character.
What makes Chianti Classico Riserva unique?
Chianti Classico Riserva is distinguished by its minimum aging requirement of 24 months, with a harmonious integration of oak that complements its structure and persistence. It offers a refined and complex expression of the Sangiovese grape.
How does this wine compare to other Chianti Classico types?
Compared to Chianti Classico Annata, Riserva wines have a longer maturation period and a more structured profile, with fine oak integration that enhances the wine's consistency and aging potential.