# Ceniprimo (2019)

- **Producer:** Barone Ricasoli SPA
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €55
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, blackberry, lavender, violet, raspberry, balsamic, sandalwood, tobacco, dried cherry

## About this wine

Ceniprimo 2019 is a Gran Selezione Chianti Classico DOCG produced by Barone Ricasoli from a single vineyard. The wine originates from the Ceniprimo vineyard, characterized by its ancient river terrace soil composed of silty deposits, clay, and limestone, situated at 300 meters altitude with a south-west aspect. Barone Ricasoli, with a history dating back to 1141, is dedicated to highlighting the distinctiveness of Sangiovese from specific vineyard sites through its 'cru' project. The 2019 vintage marked a commitment to using indigenous yeasts for the flagship Ricasoli wines, including Ceniprimo, reflecting a respect for the territory and the purity of the grape.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard planted in 1998 on an ancient river terrace.
- First vintage exclusively using indigenous yeasts for flagship Ricasoli wines.
- A Gran Selezione Chianti Classico DOCG.
- Aged for 22 months in 500-liter tonneaux.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and pronounced tannins are well-suited to rich protein dishes, where they can soften and integrate. Its high acidity cuts through the richness of fatty meats and creamy sauces, cleansing the palate. The complex aromas and flavors in the wine can complement or contrast with ingredients like herbs, mushrooms, and game.

## Wine making process

Ceniprimo 2019 is produced from hand-picked grapes harvested on October 12, 2019. Fermentation takes place at 24-27°C with daily punching down for 14-16 days, utilizing indigenous yeasts for the first time for the flagship Ricasoli wines. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging for 22 months in 500-liter tonneaux, with 30% new and 70% second passage. The wine was bottled on March 7, 2022.