Grignolino varietal

 Fabio Gea 'Black Grin' Grignolino 2016 (Piedmont).

 

This bottle itself stands out visually and evokes curiosity. The wine comes in a Traveglini Gattinara bottle, an old school charm. Then there is the wax top with a string attached for easy removal; another step in the old school direction.

When next you are about to reach for the wine corkscrew opener, you realize they went the 'modern path' this time round with a glass closure. No TCA issue here from a cork.

This wine is made using organically grown, destemmed grapes which were fermented in procelain vessels. Its holds a pale ruby-red colour, is light-bodied, with lovely red fruits and spice appeal. Though of light body, you tend to find a notable presence of tannins within the body. Definitely a lively drink to start an evening with.

You can get this wine in Singapore via Arcodyn Company Pte Ltd.

Happy sips !

Grapes used in Chianti Classico sub-region

 

The Montesecondo Chianti Classico DOCG 2019 by Silvio Messana (Tuscany).

Youthful, fresh and vibrant. It's produced using only indigenous varietals: Sangiovese 80%, Canaiolo 10% and Colorino 10%.

The current appellation rule for Chianti Classico DOCG requires the use of a minimum of 80% Sangiovese in its red wine. Other varietals allowed are Colorino, Canaiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Since 2006, no white varietal (namely Malvasia)is allowed by appellation law for use in Chianti Classico DOCG reds.

The international varietals have their uses to contribute colour, body and flavours to the reds. However when used inappropriately, they tend to overpower the qualities of the Sangiovese varietal.

Here Silvio Messana relies exclusively on the indigenous varietals so as not to make the error. Rather than merely produce a Chianti Classico red, he strives to show the virtues of Sangiovese in this wine.

This wine is available in Singapore via Luigi's Wines Pte Ltd.

Happy sips!