# Da Vinci Chianti DOCG (NV)

- **Producer:** Cantine Leonardo da Vinci
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese, Merlot
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €12
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, strawberry, violet, black pepper, vanilla

## About this wine

Cantine Leonardo da Vinci was established in 1961 in Vinci, Tuscany, the birthplace of Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci. Originally founded as a cooperative of 30 local grape growers aiming to elevate Tuscan winemaking, the estate has expanded to include over 200 winegrowing members managing more than 1,200 acres across Tuscany. The producer focuses on combining regional winemaking heritage with contemporary cellar technology to deliver classic expressions of the Chianti appellation.

## Interesting facts

- Founded in 1961 in Vinci, Tuscany, the hometown of Renaissance icon Leonardo da Vinci.
- Grown in ancient Pliocene epoch soils filled with fossilized seashells and galestro.
- Grown by a historical cooperative that expanded from 30 original growers to over 200 members.

## Food pairing

The elevated acidity and bright red fruit characteristic of Sangiovese make Chianti an exceptionally versatile partner for tomato-based sauces and rich meat dishes. The wine's lively acidity easily cuts through the fat of cheeses, meats, and olive oil, while its smooth, medium tannins interact seamlessly with protein structures without overwhelming the palate.

## Wine making process

Grapes are gently harvested, crushed, and destemmed before undergoing temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks at 20°C to 28°C for 8 to 10 days. Regular daily pump-overs encourage extraction of color and delicate aromatics while maintaining soft, smooth tannins. Approximately 15% of the wine is aged for 6 months in new and used American oak barrels to add subtle structural depth, while the rest remains in stainless steel tanks and matures in bottle for at least 3 months before release.