At only 750 hectares, the Chianti Rufina is the smallest appellation in Chianti. Lying just North East of the city of Florence, the present area of Chianti Rufina was originally delimited by Cosimo de Medici. Today, we’re spotlighting what is without question, one of the regions best wineries; Fattoria Selvapiana.
Originally built as a watch tower along the river Sieve, its primary purpose was an early warning system to prevent invaders from approaching Florence undetected. Today the estate’s fully organic certified vineyards lie on the foothills of the Appenine mountains, the natural barrier between Tuscany and Emilia Romagna.
Of all Selvapiana’s vineyards, one is incredibly special. Since 1979, Selvapiana, with the help of renowned consultant Franco Bernabei, has crafted a 100% Sangiovese Riserva from the Bucerchiale Vineyard. We’ve covered it here extensively. Today we’re reviewing a wine that proves emphatically that Chianti Classico doesn’t have a monopoly on producing amazing wine from the Chianti region.
I last chatted with owner and winemaker Federico Masseti in March at the Slow Wine event in Manhattan. He was pouring several of his wines at the time, including the subject of today’s article, which hadn’t been fully released. I was impressed when I tasted it then and it has come together nicely. Federico commented to me that he thought it was one of the best Rufina he’s made – the weather was nearly ideal and the some of vines that contribute to the blend are approaching 40 years in age.
The 2013 Selvapiana Chianti Rufina is 95% Sangiovese and 5% Malvasia and Colorino. In the glass, the wine is a bright medium ruby with a lots of violet color. This is incredibly aromatic; redolent of flowers, mineral, fresh red plums and spices. Very attractive.
On the palate the wine displays a medium body but is very fresh and vibrant. Flavors of berry, mineral and hints of mocha laced tobacco deliver everything the aromas promised. Bright and lively, this will drink well for the next 5-7 years and is a tremendous value around $14. 90 points. Disclosure: This bottle was an importer provided sample.
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| ~ This shot really captures the intense streaks of violet in the wine ~ |
Salute!
June 16, 2016
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