What kind of wine is Chianti Classico DOCG 'Gran Selezione - La Pieve' 2021 - San Felice

The Chianti Classico DOCG 'Gran Selezione - La Pieve' 2021 - San Felice represents the excellence of the ancient Tuscan appellation. Produced mainly from Sangiovese grapes, with a small contribution of historic indigenous grape varieties, this red wine embodies the quintessence of the Chianti Classico territory, one of the most renowned for elegance and longevity. The body is full and balanced, well-structured yet always harmonious, a distinctive sign of the San Felice winery's philosophy, which combines tradition with a continuous pursuit of quality.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage was characterized by balanced weather conditions, with a hot summer well-mitigated by the temperature excursions typical of the Castelnuovo Berardenga hills. The grapes arrived at the winery perfectly ripe and rich in aromas, allowing for a wine of great concentration and aromatic depth. The harvest, carried out by hand in early October, allowed for a meticulous selection of the best bunches destined for the "La Pieve" Gran Selezione.

Winemaking and aging

After a traditional fermentation in stainless steel, with maceration on the skins for about 20 days to extract color and structure, the wine is transferred to oak tonneaux where it ages for 24 months. This long aging in wood confers balance between power and finesse, integrating the tannins and enriching the aromatic profile with delicate spicy nuances. A further period in the bottle follows, essential for developing complexity and harmony before release.

Tasting Notes

The Chianti Classico DOCG 'Gran Selezione - La Pieve' 2021 - San Felice captivates with its authentic elegance and decisive character, typical of the best Tuscan wines.

Color

Visually, it presents an intense ruby red with garnet reflections, a sign of the ripeness and concentration of the Sangiovese of this vintage.

Nose

The aroma is broad and complex, with notes of ripe cherry, plum, and small red berries, accompanied by nuances of violet, sweet tobacco, and a slight balsamic hint. The time spent in wood provides elegant perceptions of vanilla and fine spices, which blend naturally with the fruity component.

Taste

On the palate, it is full, enveloping, and consistent with the nose. The tannins, dense yet silky, provide a solid structure and a long, persistent finish, where fruity and spicy sensations return. The good freshness typical of Sangiovese makes the sip dynamic and harmonious, inviting another taste.

What to pair with Chianti Classico DOCG 'Gran Selezione - La Pieve' 2021 - San Felice

Thanks to its structure and complexity, it pairs perfectly with Tuscan cuisine and dishes of great personality. Here are some suggested pairings:

• Grilled or roasted red meats
• Game, such as stewed hare or wild boar
• Aged hard cheeses
• Meat ragu or egg pasta with flavorful sauces

Also perfect as a meditation wine, to be enjoyed slowly in good company.

Storage and aging: how to store Chianti Classico DOCG 'Gran Selezione - La Pieve' 2021 - San Felice wine

To best preserve its qualities, the Chianti Classico DOCG 'Gran Selezione - La Pieve' 2021 - San Felice should be stored in a cool, dark place with controlled humidity, avoiding temperature fluctuations. The ideal serving temperature is around 18°C, preferably after an hour of opening or slight decantation to allow the wine to oxygenate.

Thanks to its structure and long aging already in the cellar, it has an aging potential of over 10 years. Over time, it develops new aromatic nuances and increasing complexity, making it an excellent choice for both immediate consumption and for your collection cellar.