Olive trees, vineyards, hilltowns and forest in Tuscany

~ The Soul of Tuscany in one Panorama: Olives, vines, forest, hilltowns and fields. Mozza il fiato! ~

Earlier this month we Profiled Gagliole in the first of a series of articles devoted to the recent and upcoming releases from this quaint property in Castellina in Chianti.  We’re continuing that today.

When you turn onto the dusty, white stone road that leads to the Villa which is the centerpiece of the Gagliole estate, it is easy to be transported back to a simpler, ancient era; an era when the Etruscans farmed, toiled, bled, terraced vineyards and manicured olive groves.  It’s hard not to be overcome by a sense of the symbolic, as if you yourself are being transported.  Gagliole captures all of the enduring Tuscan spirit.  That simple, white, cypress lined road evokes the peace and tranquility of another time that stirs the soul and blossoms romance.  I encourage you to let it sweep you away.

Church facade and Clock Tower in Tuscany

~ Facade of the Church in Castellina in Chianti ~

Today we’re reviewing one of Gagliole’s premium wines; a wine which has only been produced 6 times since 2003.   Gagliole is located in Castellina in Chianti but owns vineyards in both Castellina and Panzano.  The subject of today’s article is Pecchia, a wine sourced from Panzano.

The 2013 Gagliole Pecchia is a superlative Sangiovese.  It may be, no, forget that.  It is, the best mono-varietal Sangiovese wine that you have never heard of.  Cepparello, Le Pergole Torte, Fontalloro, Percarlo, and Panzano’s own Flaccianello….. those names roll off the lips effortlessly. This wine belongs in that group.

In the glass, the wine is a deep violet color clear to the rim of the bowl.  Enticing aromas of fresh flowers, crushed wild berry, worn leather, tobacco and fennel are absolutely vibrant and wonderful.  On the palate, this Sangiovese (100%) is everything lovers of classic Sangiovese hope for.  A wild cherry core of fruit is mouthwatering and lively.  Dried herbs like eucalyptus, pine needles and cypress intertwine with white pepper, smashed brown tobacco and a wisp of vanilla that graces the back end of your palate. Full bodied and a bit chewy without food, this is very well balanced and classy.  The more masculine side of Sangiovese and perhaps the best 2013 I have had from the vintage yet.  95 points.  Prices can vary, so shop around.  $75-$110.  Disclosure: This bottle was an importer provided sample.

Bottle of Tuscan Gagliole wine and wine glass

~ Pecchia is 100% Sangiovese grown in Panzano in Chianti and is only produced in ideal vintages ~

Pecchia is vinified in stainless steel and matured in barrique and tonneaux for 18 months before bottle aging an additional year prior to release.  As I mentioned above, the wine is chewy without food, but with an appropriate meal, the wine transforms and I’ll dare you not to be transported to Tuscany.   What did we eat?

Beef short rib and parmigiano risotto

~ Slow Braised Beef Short Ribs over Parmigiano Risotto ~

Want to find Pecchia?  Search here:  Wine Searcher

Salute!

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