Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Chianti Station Vineyard in Alexander Valley contains Sangiovese vines planted by Edoardo Seghesio in 1910. They are described as the oldest Sangiovese vines in North America and include proprietary heirloom clones that have otherwise disappeared. This is Seghesio’s smallest-production wine.
Grapes
Sangiovese-based field blend.
Vinification
The grapes underwent rigorous sorting in the vineyard, followed by destemming and light crushing. They were placed into a 1-tonne open-top fermentor without pumping to protect the delicate fruit. After a three-day cold hold, fermentation began without added yeast. Total maceration lasted eight days. The wine was then transferred to barrel for malolactic fermentation and minimally filtered before bottling.
Ageing
Matured for 17 months in 100% neutral French oak puncheons. It was racked once after malolactic fermentation and once for bottling.
Technical data
- Vintage: 2023
- Harvest date: September 29, 2023
- Alcohol: 13.5%
- pH: 3.60
- Titratable acidity: 5.6 g/L
- Production: 109 cases
- Format presented: 750 ml
Tasting profile
Tart red cherry and vivid red fruit are joined by intense aromas of dried mushroom, wild herbs, and subtle flowers. Vibrant acidity and substantial, developed tannins give the palate structure and balance. Its aromas and textures continue to change in the glass, indicating potential for ageing. The overall style is refined, powerful, and suited to the table.
Serving and pairing
Pair with mushroom risotto, pasta in a rich tomato sauce, or roasted chicken with herbs. A natural quercetin deposit may sometimes appear on the cork or in the opened wine; it is not spoilage.
Vintage notes
Heavy rain early in the 2023 season saturated the soils and delayed vineyard work. Regenerative practices included adjusted timing, retaining active roots, using vineyard crimpers, and establishing substantial cover crops to protect and enrich the soil. A needs-based fungicide schedule reduced applications, while mechanical canopy lifting was expanded. Cool nights, mild afternoons, and an absence of extreme summer heat supported a smooth harvest.
Label / history
The vineyard takes its name from a small railway station that once stood beside the vines and served as an important early-20th-century hub for transporting Seghesio family grapes to market.
