# Rocca Guicciarda Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva (2022)

- **Producer:** Ricasoli
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese, Merlot, Canaiolo
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, blackberry, herbaceous, mint, vanilla, toast, cedar, chocolate, leather, tobacco, forest floor, smoke

## About this wine

Rocca Guicciarda is a historic estate-selection Riserva from the legendary Ricasoli family, based at the magnificent Castello di Brolio in Gaiole in Chianti. As the oldest winery in Italy, with roots dating back to 1141, Ricasoli holds a foundational place in wine history. It was here in 1872 that Baron Bettino Ricasoli formulated the original recipe for Chianti. Rocca Guicciarda, once one of the family's most important feudal estates, continues to represent a benchmark for traditional Chianti Classico Riserva, showcasing the diverse, high-elevation soils of the Brolio estate.

## Interesting facts

- Ricasoli is the oldest winery in Italy and the second oldest in the world, with a history dating back to 1141.
- Baron Bettino Ricasoli, who twice served as Italy's Prime Minister, created the original Chianti blend recipe at Brolio Castle in 1872.
- The wine is named after Rocca Guicciarda, historically one of the Ricasoli family's most important feudal estates.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and robust, polished tannins of this Sangiovese-dominated Riserva make it an exceptional partner for rich, fatty meats and savory, umami-driven dishes. The wine's structure cuts through animal fats and balances the acidity of tomato-based sauces, while its earthy undertones complement wild mushrooms and Tuscan herbs.

## Wine making process

The grapes are sourced from estate vineyards situated between 280 and 480 meters above sea level, spanning five distinct geological soil formations. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks at 24°C to 27°C, followed by 14 to 16 days of skin contact. The wine is then aged for 18 months in a combination of second- and third-use tonneaux and large traditional oak casks (botte grande). Finally, it undergoes a minimum of 3 months of bottle refinement before release.