The new vintage of our Own Selection Chianti is here. Davy Żyw, our Italy Buyer, takes a closer look at a delicious and food-friendly red.  

2018 Own Selection Chianti

Our 2018 Own Selection Chianti is made for us by the Stucchi Prinetti family, who have been making wine at the legendary Badia a Coltibuono estate since 1846; today, siblings Roberto, Emanuela, Paolo and Guido are at the helm. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest vintage of our Own Selection Chianti.  

What is it?   

This Chianti Classico is 100% Sangiovese, from one of the region’s most esteemed estates: Badia a Coltibuono. The ancient winery has a history spanning 1000 years, and their Chianti is very traditional in style, but well-deserving of a place in any Italian wine-lover’s cellar. This wine is one of the benchmark examples of the region.  

Why’s it different?   

The 2018 gives elegance and freshness, perfectly demonstrating Sangiovese’s delicious, slightly sour charm. The wine comes from two separate organic vineyards in Gaiole and Castelnuovo Beradenga. The high-altitude limestone soils of Gaiole give elegance, freshness and minerality, while the richer soils of Castelnuovo Beradenga add more flesh and richness to the wine. Natural fermentations and a year’s ageing in traditional botti polish the tannins and give this wine lots of drinkability.  

What about its flavour profile?   

This is a typical Chianti, giving notes of mixed cherries – both sour and ripe – red berries and forest fruits, complemented by a touch of dried roses, white pepper and a light smoky herbal character. The tannins are firm, without detracting from a delicately silky mouthfeel. A timelessly elegant Chianti, bolstered by great acidity.  

What should I eat with it?   

It’s delicious with rosemary-laced focaccia oozing with fresh vintage olive oil, tomato-based pasta dishes or grilled lamb.  

Shop the new vintage of our Own Selection Chianti here.