In Italy, authenticity and history are often intertwined. Such is the case at Frescobaldi, family-run estates making wine for over 700 years, with the simple yet ambitious goal of representing and reflecting the best of Tuscan terroirs.
It takes experience and know-how to undertake such a mission. Frescobaldi has these characteristics, but also has access to some of the most magnificent estates in the world. The Tenuta Perano, set in a natural amphitheater in the commune of Gaiole in Chianti, is one example, and while its natural beauty is central to its story, the wine it produces is an even bigger part of it: it yields three different expressions of Sangiovese-based Chianti Classico, all displaying the sophistication and nuance to be expected from Frescobaldi’s Tuscan wines.
The newest of these is the just-released Rialzi 2015, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, a cru wine that lives up to Frescobaldi’s lofty goals. Its elegance and structure in the bottle belies its rustic beginnings in the fields—picturesque as they may be. The wine matures in new French oak barrels for 24 months, the final step before bottling—and further aging in bottle—on a path that begins 500 meters up on a hillside on vines that have adapted to gravelly soil with a dearth of water.
Technical director Nicolò D’Afflitto says, “Grapevines in challenging conditions develop additional character and quality,” which helps give Rialzi the depth, supple tannic structure and sophistication of a cru.
D’Afflitto and winemaker Riccardo Giorgi, who established the first branch outside of Italy of pruning experts Simonit & Sirch during his long tenure in Bordeaux, are tasked with ensuring that Tenuta Perano produces wines of excellence. Together, they have put the 250 hectares—60 of which are in vineyard—to work in the production of wines that evoke Tuscany’s soulfulness.
Besides the new 2015 vintage, Tenuta Perano produces Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Riserva, wines that also thrive off their humble beginnings in the field, and which exhibit sophistication and elegance in the glass. These are wines to be savored, to accompany grilled meats and vegetables to complete a memorable meal.
The wines from Tenuta Perano represent a fantastic expression not only of Tuscany and Chianti Classico, but of the Frescobaldi commitment to sustainability, hospitality and cuisine. This centuries-old, family-run business maintains six estates throughout Tuscany, including several that offer luxurious accommodations, as well as two Tuscan restaurants and Ristorante Frescobaldi in London. The family also manufactures Laudemio Frescobaldi extra virgin olive oil, and oversees environmental and art programs.
Frescobaldi’s motto, “Cultivating Toscana Diversity,” starts with creating world-class wines, and goes much further. It’s a world worth exploring.