~ The picturesque vineyards of Castellina in Chianti ~
Earlier this month, I penned an article introducing you to a small, artisan producer with some of the highest vineyards in Chianti Classico. Today, the tale of Piemaggio continues and legend says, the story goes like this……..
In the old times, a monk was on pilgrimage; walking and praying in this area for days and days during the summer. He eventually lost consciouness due to the hot temperatures. Three young sisters, flower girls, found this monk in the woods and gave him a little bit of red wine trying to help him. The monk woke up because the wine was so good. He continued his walk but after several months he decided to return, to start building a small church and to plant some vineyards together with other monks, producing a good red wine to offer to the parishioners.
~ The courtyard at Piemaggio. To the left is the entrance to the Cellars ~
The vineyard that produces the fruit for Piemaggio’s Riserva sits at almost 500 meters above sea level. The soil is the typical combination of galestro and alberese. Planted to a mix of varietals, the composition of the vineyard is reflected in the blend of the wine: 90% Sangiovese and 10% of Colorino, Canaiolo and Ciliegiolo. (We will have a masters class on how to pronounce Ciliegiolo at another time!)
Fermentation of the grapes takes place in stainless steel, but the aging regimen is interesting and unique. For 36 months, the blended juice is aged in a combination of concrete tanks, large 25 hectoliter French botte and smaller French tonneaux. It’s an interesting process which yields a wine of freshness with the aim of exalting the perfume of the Sangiovese grape. Piemaggio has succeeded.
~ Chiesa in Castellina in Chianti Centro ~
The 2010 Piemaggio Chianti Classico Riserva Le Fioraie is a fresh structured wine and the most current vintage released. Deep violet in the glass, the wine is redolent of freshly cut lavender, lilies, and wild berries with hints of pepper and spice. Bold and juicy on the palate, the crushed berry flavors take center stage with wonderful concentration of flavor. Dried herbs, menthol, and “Tuscan dust” appear on the midpalate. Long, long finish that just sits on your tongue. Although not rather tannic, the muscle of the 2010 vintage is apparent. We enjoyed this now with simple chicken Milanese and a fresh Caprese salad. That said, 2-3 years in the cellar will benefit this wine. 91 points. Not yet released.
~ Le Fioraie means Flower Girls in Italian ~
Stay tuned for more from this wonderful winery. In the meantime, have a question or comment? Leave it in the field below!
Salute.
