I Fabbri di Susanna Grassi Chianti Classico - Riserva 2019
Category | Red Wine |
Varietal | |
Brand | I Fabbri di Susanna Grassi |
Origin | Italy, Tuscany, Chianti Classico |
The Grassi family has been growing grapes and making wine at their estate, Casole, in Lamole since the 1600's. As well as making wine, the family was also the local blacksmith, I Fabbri, which became the name of their label. In the 1920's, the family sold their wine commercially, though by the middle of the 20th century, the estate's vineyards were abandoned. In the late 1990's, current proprietor Susanna Grassi and her sister Maddalena resuscitated the vines and made I Fabbri into one of the leading estates in Lamole: they are proud to be two of the few pioneering women winemakers of Chianti.
Today, the estate consists of 9 hectares of vineyards grown between 550 and 650 meters above sea level — Lamole is called the roof of Chianti — on loose, sandy soils. Many of their vines are planted on centuries-old terraces — rebuilt by Susanna and Maddalena in 2002 — that form a beautiful natural amphitheater. The vines are certified organic and are grown along biodynamic principles. In addition, I Fabbri has embraced sustainable practices in both the vineyard and cellar, including lightweight glass bottles, energy independence through a photovoltaic system and reusing the by-products of winemaking as much as possible. All grapes are hand-harvested and fermented with native yeasts.
I Fabbri's Chianti Classico Riserva is made from 100% Sangiovese fermented with native yeasts in cement and aged for 12 months in 500 liter French oak tonneaux. In the glass the wine shows a beautiful light ruby color with a slight tawny hue at the rim. Pronounced aromas of ripe dark cherries pierce the senses with supporting notes of stones, purple flowers and dried herbs. The palate is impeccably balanced with strong, mouthcoating tannins; a long, fine acidity; and persistent, complex finish. This is a Riserva that showcases more structure and power without sacrificing any of the purity and elegance Lamole Sangiovese is known for. A beautiful Riserva to enjoy with a wide array of full-flavored, traditional Tuscan dishes.