About the Wine

Castello di Meleto is in the heartland of Tuscany, located in the hills of "Gaiole in Chianti." The iconic region in Italy for its rolling hills and excellent wine production, especially of Sangiovese grapes in very different expressions of the Chianti Classico Area giving structured wines that combine freshness and minerality thanks to the rocky soils.

Due to the varieties of Microclimates in the distinct zones, there are areas where hills block wind patterns allowing sunshine to hit the hillsides at different angles, creating a variety of climates in between the valleys. As a result, the sub-regions of Chianti feature unique characteristics and flavor profiles. 

The earliest records mentioned for Meleto date back to the XIth century when the castle belonged to the Benedictine Monks in Badia a Coltibuono.

The name “Meleto in Chianti” was originally found in 1256 in a book named “Libro degli Estimi” (Book of Estimates) of the Florentine Guelphs as part of a local feudal family. Castello di Meleto became a very desired position due to its strategic location. Situated near the border between the Federal Republic of Florence´s territories and the Republic of Siena, it turned out to be the first Florentine bastion in the area and later on one of the main fortresses in the Lega del Chianti. The property was kept intact during those times of attacks.

"Chianti Classico" has two additional levels that determine the wine's quality and aging. "Chianti Classico Riserva" wines need at least two years in barrel (24 months) plus three months in bottle before being released. 

Aging: 24 months in Slavonian and French oak barrels

Tasting Notes: 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot. Ruby and garnet reflections, aromas of ripe fruit, spicy herbs, and pepper notes. It is a full-body wine with a complex, long finish and soft mouth tannins. It is perfect to pair with first courses such as cold meats, hams, aged cheese, pasta with meat sauce, and typical Italian fresh dishes.

Reviews

The 2017 Chianti Classico Riserva offers a lovely combination of raciness and energy. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, spice, and mint all grace the 2017. Medium in body, gracious and refined, the Riserva has so much to offer. Bright acids give the 2017 quite a bit of energy. Best of all, the 2017 will drink well upon release. ~93 Vinous Media.

Rich flavors of red fruits with notes of pressed flowers and bergamot. The wine is full-body, with structure refined tannins, fresh and bright, long finish ready to drink now. ~93 Raffaele Vecchione

Brightening dark ruby. In the nose of wild berries, cherries, and a delicate pinch of cassis, in the aftertaste noble spice. Appears on the palate with a supple mouth entry, spreads out clearly and juicy, nice fan, in the aftertaste robust, juicy tannins. ~92 Falstaff

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