For over a millennium, the Castello di Cacchiano has thrived in the town of Gaiole in Chianti, just outside of Siena. Built in the 10th century by the Roman Empire, the Castello sits picturesquely atop a high hill, with a 360-degree panorama over their 200-hectare estate. Some 34 hectares are planted to vine, with the vast majority of production dedicated to Chianti Classico production of the region’s iconic, red still wines. A tiny, barely there portion of the sangiovese vines are harvested early and set aside for the crafting of this production – a snapshot of the extraordinary freshness and intensity that can stem from the sangiovese grape grown on these calcareous, galestro soils. 

This wine is made in the Champagne style, where 100% sangiovese from the 2018 vintage is fermented in stainless steel, then bottled and aged on the lees for over 30 months to develop its characteristic soft mousse. A finishing dosage of 4 grams per liter boosts the expression of sangiovese’s characteristic red berry and cherry fruits, with additional notes of pine tar, blood orange, rose petals, and flint – with a classic Tuscan bite of sanguine/iodine sensation, adding yet another bit of delectable complexity. Like its still cousin, this is a decidedly food-friendly wine and something that is simply begging to be shared with any fellow wine geek. At just over $25, this is a worthy bottle to sample and share with endless enthusiasm!