About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Podere Mello was planted in 2001 by agronomist Ruggero Mazzilli at approximately 700 m above sea level and is described as the highest-altitude vineyard in the Chianti Classico DOCG area. The certified-organic site experiences warm, sunny days, cool nights and constant airflow. Its Macigno soil is a well-draining, non-calcareous sandstone low in organic matter. Planting density is 5,000 vines per hectare, yield is 60 quintals per hectare, and production totals 3,300 bottles. The estate is certified organic and carbon neutral.
Grapes
100% Sangiovese from a single vineyard.
Vinification
The finest bunches are selected by hand in the vineyard and carried to the winery in small crates. Eighty percent of the crop is destemmed, optically sorted and transferred to conical French oak vats. Approximately 20% remains as whole bunches and is vinified in terracotta amphorae. Fermentation uses natural yeasts. Gentle punch-downs are performed in the oak vats during the first 10 days; skin contact lasts 45 days there and up to 90 days in amphora.
Ageing
The wine ages for 18 months in 25 hl Austrian oak casks, including six months on the fine lees, followed by eight months in bottle before release.
Tasting profile
Ruby red with purple nuances. Raspberry, red cherry and violet shape the aroma. Fine, smooth tannins support a persistent, medium-bodied structure associated with the high-altitude site. The profile emphasizes finesse and the character of Sangiovese from this remote hilltop vineyard.
