Wine information:
La Castellina is located in the borough of Castellina in Chianti. The estate was founded by the aristocratic Squarcialupi family and vineyards have been cultivated at the estate since the middle ages. 1984 was a key year for Chianti Classico as the DOCG production code was first introduced. It was shortly afterwards, in 1989, that Monica Targioni and her husband Tommaso Bojola took over and the "rebirth" of Fattoria La Castellina began. In 1998 a modern cellar near the village was bought, however the cellars for ageing the wine remain at the restored Squarcialupi Palace. The grapes for the Chianti Classico come from 30 hectares of south-facing vineyards at an altitude of 400m. It is a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo and is aged in Slavonian oak barrels for a period of 12 months and 3 months in bottle prior to release. The nose is dominated by fruity notes including marionberry, cherry and raspberry. There are also spicy, peppery notes and a touch cinnamon. The palate is soft and well-structured. Try with grilled meat, steak or fresh or ripe cheeses like pecorino. (Please note the image show the old label - the new label has a white background).