2014 Castelgreve Classicoproduct-pdf - DOCG, , - 90pts -James Sucklling | a Perfect "Drink Now" Why We're Drinking It $0 SHIPPING Selection (6+/btls)

Coming from Chianti's quality heartland, designated Classico, this is just the ticket when looking for the ideal food wine. Castelgreve’s take on this classic 100% Sangiovese, is absolutely top notch. Coming out of the vintage deemed "a surprisingly good one" by the critics (it was exceptionally mild and dry in September and early October), the wine shows a style that's lighter and highly approachable. A total crowd-pleaser.

“This easy-drinking red opens with aromas that recall moist soil, leather, berry and a hint of leafy forest floor,” says the Wine Enthusiast. In other words—A delicious “Tuesday night” red that dismisses any hint of fuss in favor of serious regional flavor.

Four reasons we love it: ● Sangiovese is a contender for the world’s best food wine. The varietal is grown throughout Italy and is particularly significant in Tuscany where its tannins and acidity make an ideal match for the region’s famous cuisine.

● The Chianti Classico DOCG is a specialized terroir noted for its alberese- and galestro-rich soils. The ground here is distinctly stonier than in the rest of the larger Chianti zone, which results in more concentrated wines with increased grip, tannin, and depth. By law, these wines must be made of primarily Sangiovese (75% to 100%).

● As is traditional for Chianti, this wine was aged in large oak barrels for 12 months before bottling. These massive wooden vessels are neutral in terms of oak influence and allow for a slow and gentle softening of Sangiovese’s tannin and naturally high acidity.

● A cooler than average early growing season challenged growers throughout Tuscany, “but a fine September saved the vintage. Best to date are slim, elegant reds,” concludes the Wine Spectator.

● The vast majority of commercially produced Chianti containing, as economy dictates, only the minimum of Sangio allowed by law. An additional testament to this red’s virtue, grapes are hand harvested, fermented in stainless steel and aged for a year in neutral wood vessels. Castelli del Grevepesa was founded in 1965 as a cooperative of 18 Tuscan growers. Today, that number has risen to 150 separate estates bound together by a shared commitment to super high-quality, 100% authentic Chianti Classico.

Tasting Notes Intense ruby ??red color, this Chianti Classico based on Sangiovese VARIETAL grapes has elegant aromas, hints of violet and nuances of ripe fruit. Full Sangiovese taste, harmonious with soft and velvety tannins, persistent finish. APPELLATION Tuscany, Italy ALCOHOL 13.50 SIZE 750ml BLEND 100% Sangiovese

The Story to Know Castelli del Grevepesa was established in 1965 by a group of 18 viticulturists from Tuscany on the initiative of Cavalier Gualtiero Armando Nunzi. Their intent was to create a solid reality within which, in a single common goal, more people came from the various territories of the Chianti Classico Fiorentino to keep intact the centuries-old traditions of Tuscan viticulture, of the territory and of the farming customs. Since its foundation, the objective has been pursued to produce high-quality wines in compliance with the strict laws of the Law and of the Gallo Nero Corsorzio, making a careful selection of the grapes.

To date, the Castelli del Grevepesa can count on about 150 member companies, some of which are still among the first founders. Most of the Associate Companies have their own location in the Chianti Classico territories, which mainly extend to the areas of , Mercatale Val di Pesa, San Casciano Val di Pesa, Tavarnelle Val di Pesa and Barberino Val d'Elsa.

Perfect Pairings Delicious paired with grilled red meats, game and ripe cheeses.

Ratings 92 Insider Points

90 Points- James Suckling

Reviews Wines from Castles are That Much Cooler.

At least, they often have a cooler backstory. That story is backed up even further when the wine itself is a winner. This Chianti Classico hit all the bases for me, and turned itself into a home run. I bought this for our members as soon as I tasted it.

A deep cherry nose with a bit of spice. Cassis, blueberry, lingonberry, light anise & an earthy undertone all pop out on the palate, with balanced acidity and a medium body. It finishes long with tobacco leaves and cherry. Now when was the last time I got to visit a castle? I'll just have to imagine myself sitting in a throne with this for now.

92 Points - JZ January '18

"Fruity and focused with cherry and lemon aromas and flavors. Medium to light body, bright finish. Drink now."- James Suckling