Producer Background: Steeped in the hills of Tuscany lies Melini, an impressive winery second to none in the art of making the area's most famous wine: Chianti Classico. Melini was founded in 1705 and established itself as an 'international' winery in 1860 when Laborel Melini collaborated in developing the straw-covered flask (fiasco). This made it possible for the wine to travel and launched Melini in international markets.

Wine Type: Dry Red

Grape Type: 85% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo Nero, 3% Malvasia, 2% Trebbiano.

Country: Italy

Region: Tuscany

Vinification:

Alcohol 12%  Total acidity 5.5 g/l  pH 3.20  Sugar 1 g/l  Extract 21 g/l.

Along the Elsa River are ancient, picturesque villages of Monte Reggiani, Colle, San Gimignano and Certaldo. The grapes come from selected vineyards on well exposed hillsides, sited at 350-400 meters elevation, along the river. The vines are simple- and double-Guyot trained and planted in a blend of alberese, marl and limestone soils. Yields are 80 quintals/ha, or about 3.5 tons/acre. Grapes harvested in October are vinified in “red” with 2 weeks maceration and frequent pumping over; fermentation takes place at 25-26°C with the addition of selected yeasts. The wine is aged for 6 months in stainless steel tanks and 3 months in bottle before release.

Tasting Notes: The wine has intense, fragrant and elegant aromas of blackberries and raspberries, with violet and Florentine iris notes. On the palate, the taste is dry, full, harmonious and slightly tannic, with an elegant aftertaste of toasted almond and fruits of the forest.

Food Match: turkey, lamb, Hard cheeses, grilled meats, chicken, beef.