~ The original villa photographed sometime in the early 20th century ~
Leave a mark on the world.
This is the unspoken duty of the Corsini family that influences their daily lives. Add your mark to nine centuries of history, in which trade, finance, politics, religion, diplomacy and agriculture have each, sometimes simultaneously, been the Corsini family’s vocation. Today, that mark rests in the agriculture and lands which Duccio Corsini safeguards to ensure that only natural, organic Chianti Classico and other wares are produced from the family’s Villa Le Corti estate near Val di Pesa.
The Corsini family purchased the estate in 1363, a decision that was determined by the high quality of the land and the close proximity to Florence which was so central to many of the family’s concerns.
~ Today the Villa includes an Osteria, Cooking School and lodging in addition to wine and olive oil production. It is truly a self contained destination ~
Located between Florence and Siena, owner Duccio Corsini and his family follow organic agricultural methods to produce Chianti Classico and extra virgin olive oil. The estate extends over 250 hectares of land, 49 of which are vineyards planted with Sangiovese to produce Chianti Classico while 73 hectares are devoted olive groves. Today we’re introducing you to the first of several reviews coming from this regal estate: the Don Tomasso Gran Selezione.
Produced from Sangiovese with a small percentage of Merlot, the 2015 Don Tomasso Gran Selezione is a special wine. Deep ruby with purple highlights in the glass, we decanted this wine for 60 minutes before dinner given its young age. Elevated in 70% new French tonneaux and 30% used tonneaux for 18 months, the wine develops an aristocratic aroma profile that is quite complex.
Dark berries, lavender, vanilla, Tuscan herbs and tobacco are notable on the palate. Full bodied with lots of structure, while approachable now, this clearly has the stuffing to age. Ripe, juicy crushed black plums are succulent and accented with spices, roasted coffee, and fennel. With additional aeration, the nose picked up stronger fennel and cured meat notes. This is quite delicious and yet another nod to the seemingly infallible 2015 vintage. Released after 18 months bottle aging this vintage is not yet available on the open market. Act quickly once it is. 93 points. Wonderful value around $29 Euro.
~ A gorgeous wine that is both organic and vegan if those are qualities you desire in a wine ~
Salute!
I opened a 2008 some months ago…was stunning, not far away from a Brunello in terms of quality.
I was not familiar with this producer but was very encouraged by this tasting. I have their Chianti Classico Riserva and a few of their wines from Maremma to report on. Quality is high and the prices are fair! Stay tuned.