Castelgreve Riserva Chianti Classico 2018 (Tuscany) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely, sustainably crafted Riserva Chianti Classico which arrives at the LCBO this coming weekend as part of the December 3rd LCBO VINTAGES Release.

Produced by Castelli del Grevepesa, this modern co-operative winery was established in 1965 by visionary Sir Armando Nunzi and an initial group of 17 winegrowers. Today, this co-operative is the largest Chianti Classico family with over 120 associate winegrowers. Together, they maintain age-old traditions and know-how that is passed along each generation, while also using modern and innovation production methods and techniques to craft their wines. With passion and hard work, Castelli del Grevepesa aims to deliver a combination of fine quality and affordably priced wines.

After enjoying several wines recently from Castelli del Grevepesa's Clemente VII range, this red wine is from their Castelgreve line of wines. The name 'Castelgreve' is a shortened version of the company's full name. This Castelgreve Riserva Chianti Classico is crafted with mainly Sangiovese (min. 80%) and a small percentage of other red berry varieties. The grapes were hand-harvested with individual grape selection, then fermented at a controlled temperature of 30°C with 12 days of maceration time with skins. It was aged for a minimum of 24 months in Slavonian oak barrels, followed by further refinement and ageing in bottle for at least 3 months. From what was by most accounts an exceptionally good vintage, let's see how this 2018 Riserva Chianti Classico is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

CASTELGREVE RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2018 - Sustainable, DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#344416) (XD) - $21.95
Crafted with mainly Sangiovese, this has a medium-high intensity nose that is elegant and quite pretty with aromas of sweet red and black cherry, sweet baking spices, cinnamon, and clove, along with touches of plum and earthy, oak spice undertones which add a savoury component. It's medium to medium-full bodied and slightly creamy on the palate with plummy, red and black cherry, sweet spices, and oak flavours. Juicy and succulent with fresh acidity and smooth, refined tannins that have just a touch of chalky grip. Savoury with chocolatey oak and earthy notes lingering on the long finish. Enjoy this recommended buy over the next few years. Score: 89 pts

Other lovely wines by Castelli del Grevepesa are available at the LCBO or through their Agent - Profile Wine Group.