# Casaloste Chianti Classico (2020)

- **Producer:** Casaloste
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese, Merlot
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €26
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, plum, red currants, ripe red berries, black currant, violet, licorice, spice, cocoa, forest floor, dried flowers, bark, earth

## About this wine

Casaloste Chianti Classico is a 2020 D.O.C.G. wine from Tuscany, Italy, produced by Casaloste. The estate, located in Panzano in Chianti, is owned by agronomist and oenologist Giovanni Battista d'Orsi and his wife Emilia, who adhere to a philosophy of meticulous small-scale production to achieve greatness. The vineyards are certified organic, a practice initiated by the estate in 1994. The 2020 vintage benefited from ideal weather conditions, yielding grapes with excellent balance and intensity. This wine is a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot, reflecting the unique terroir of Panzano and the producer's dedication to crafting exceptional Chianti Classico.

## Interesting facts

- Casaloste was the first farm in Panzano to be certified organic, achieving this in 1994.
- The estate's motto, 'Be small to make great wines,' highlights their focus on quality over quantity.
- The 2020 vintage saw yields down 10%, concentrating flavors and structure.
- Giovanni Battista d'Orsi personally oversees all winemaking processes.

## Food pairing

The wine's robust tannins and medium-plus body are well-suited to complement the richness of grilled and braised red meats, effectively cutting through fat and balancing protein. Its vibrant acidity also refreshes the palate, making it a versatile companion for hearty dishes.

## Wine making process

Casaloste Chianti Classico is produced by Giovanni Battista d'Orsi, who personally oversees all winemaking. The estate is committed to organic farming, a practice they adopted early in 1994. The grapes, primarily Sangiovese with a touch of Merlot, undergo fermentation under careful supervision. Following fermentation, the wine is typically aged in French oak casks, a process that contributes to its structure and complexity. The estate's production is deliberately kept small, adhering to their philosophy of 'Be small to make great wines,' with an annual output of around 60,000 bottles across all labels.