What kind of wine is Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 'Castello di Brolio' 2021 - Barone Ricasoli

The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 'Castello di Brolio' 2021 - Barone Ricasoli is the flagship wine of the historic Tuscan estate, an authentic expression of the Gaiole in Chianti territory. It is primarily made from Sangiovese grapes sourced from the most suitable vineyards on the property, grown on soils rich in alberese and galestro, which lend elegance and depth to the wine. This is a Chianti Classico DOCG of great personality, with a full, harmonious body and a perfect balance between freshness and richness. It is one of the most representative labels in the Gran Selezione category, the highest quality expression of the appellation.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage stands out for its ideal climatic conditions, characterized by a mild spring and a warm summer with excellent day-night temperature variations. These conditions favored slow and complete grape ripening, ensuring a perfect balance between sugars, acidity, and aromatic compounds. The result is a dense and deep Chianti Classico, with extraordinary aromatic concentration and remarkable finesse.

Winemaking and Aging

The Sangiovese grapes are hand-picked and carefully selected before winemaking. Fermentation and maceration take place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures for about 14-16 days, a process that allows for the extraction of aromas and color while maintaining the wine's balance. This is followed by aging for 21 months in French oak barriques and tonneaux, which imparts complexity and roundness, without ever overshadowing the fruit's elegance. Further rest in the bottle completes the maturation and harmonizes the aromatic and tannic components.

Tasting Notes

A Chianti Classico Gran Selezione distinguished by its structure and longevity, capable of evolving splendidly over time. Color: deep ruby red with slight garnet reflections, a sign of youth and evolutionary potential. Nose: the bouquet is intense and complex, with aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, and plum intertwined with spicy notes of black pepper, tobacco, and balsamic hints. The elegance of the wood is perfectly integrated. Palate: on the palate, it is full and enveloping, with dense yet silky tannins and a long finish. The lively acidity carries the sip to a balanced and savory finish, guaranteeing longevity and finesse.

Food Pairings for Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 'Castello di Brolio' 2021 - Barone Ricasoli

This wine is ideal for pairing with flavorful traditional Tuscan dishes and beyond. Its structure and complexity make it a perfect companion for:

• grilled red meats and roasts;
• braised and stewed beef;
• game dishes such as wild boar or hare;
• aged cheeses such as Tuscan pecorino and parmesan.

Even on its own, it is a contemplative wine, capable of telling the deep connection between Castello di Brolio and its land.

Storage and Aging: How to store Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 'Castello di Brolio' 2021 - Barone Ricasoli

To preserve all its qualities, it is important to store the wine in a cool, dark place with constant humidity. The ideal temperature ranges between 12 and 16 °C, with bottles laid horizontally to keep the cork moist. Thanks to its solid structure and the perfect integration between fruit and wood, the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 'Castello di Brolio' 2021 - Barone Ricasoli has excellent aging potential, capable of evolving positively for over 10-15 years, developing more complex and refined notes over time.