Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The wine is made exclusively from Sangiovese grown in the Querciolina vineyard at Greve in Chianti. The soil is predominantly limestone. Grapes are picked by hand from 5 to 8 October, with an average vineyard yield of 50 quintals per hectare (5 t/ha).
Grapes
100% Sangiovese from the Querciolina vineyard.
Vinification
The grapes are vinified in separate 50 hl lots. Fermentation is temperature-controlled, reaching no more than 30°C. Maceration lasts 16–18 days, with gentle pump-overs and punch-downs.
Ageing
Maturation begins with 18 months in wooden vessels, followed by 12 months in smaller tonneaux and barriques. The oak is 75% Allier and 25% Vosges. The wine then rests in bottle for at least six months.
Technical data
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG. Alcohol is 14.00% vol. Average annual production is 20,000 bottles, in 375 ml, 750 ml and 1.5 L formats. The first vintage was released in 1982 as an IGT Supertuscan.
Tasting profile
An intense, dense ruby red with subtle garnet overtones. The bouquet is fine, broad and persistent, combining cherry, blackberry and raspberry with oak and vanilla. Elegant and complex on the palate, it has a closely woven structure of smooth, pleasant tannins, supported by fruit, spice, oak and vanilla, and finishes long and agreeably.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18–20°C with substantial roasts, game or mature cheeses.
Label / history
The name Sassello refers to a thrush that visits the Querciolina property during harvest.
