2015 Sinopie Chianti DOCG

$16.30 btl / $195.60 cs (case of 12 x 750ml)

The saying “you get what you pay for” usually holds true except for those rare opportunities when quality surpassing price. The 2015 Sinopie Chianti DOCG is a fresh, fruit forward and vibrant style of modern Chianti Rufina, made with grapes from Colognole’s younger vines. These young vines are approaching the 10 year mark and, although can be classified under Chianti Rufina DOCG, are leveraged to make wine under the generic Chianti appellation delivering structured wines with depth at a great value.

Chianti Rufina is the most famous of the seven subzones that fall under Italy’s iconic Chianti DOCG. Located in the hills to the east of Florence, Rufina has a continental climate and higher altitude then the other subzones allowing Sangiovese to ripen while retaining acidity. There are only 25 wineries in Rufina, and almost 40% of total production is made by the large Frescobaldi company, which means that it is rare that Rufina wines are enjoyed by those outside of Italy.

The vineyards of Colognole, lie at an altitude between 230 and 450 meters above sea level. They are positioned on the slopes of Mount Giovi where they get ideal sunlight, but also the soils get washed out by rain. The richer soil tend to accumulate along the banks of the Sieve River, while the land further up the hillside, where the vineyards lie, retain less nutrients. This is ideal for the vines as poor soil conditions result in wines with great elegance, fine tannins and aromatic, fruity notes.

Additionally, the 2015 Tuscan vintage is of top-quality. After a wet, challenging 2014, Tuscan vintners wanted their sunshine back. Thankfully, they got it in 2015 and a warm, balanced summer and well-timed rains produced great quality Sangiovese. The 2015 vintage is being compared to the classic 2010 vintage which boasts elegance, structure and freshness.

Price: Case of 12 at $195.60 ($16.30 per bottle)

Reviews: “This is a vinous and fruit forward expression with loads of raw cherry and raspberry at the top. The 2015 Sinopie Chianti is very youthful and bright. The wine delivers a fresh, crisp approach and an informal, no-fuss attitude. Oak-aged Sangiovese (93%) is blended with 7% Merlot for extra softness and a richer fruit profile. This wine delivers simplicity, and aspires to little more.” Score 87, eRobertParker.com, Nov 2016.

Drink: Now or over the next 18 months

Type/Variety/Body: Dry red, 93% Sangiovese, 7% Merlot, light-medium bodied

Service: Best served 14°C – 16°C

Food Pairing: Grilled beef or lamb, tomato based dishes, spaghetti Bolognese, lasagna and pizza