# Vecchia Cantina Chianti (2021)

- **Producer:** Vecchia Cantina di Montepulciano
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €13
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–17 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, cream, butter, leather, earth

## About this wine

Vecchia Cantina Chianti 2021 is a red wine from Tuscany, Italy, produced by Vecchia Cantina di Montepulciano. The wine is primarily made from Sangiovese grapes, adhering to Chianti DOCG regulations. The producer, Vecchia Cantina di Montepulciano, is the oldest and largest wine cooperative in Tuscany, established in 1937 by 14 founding members. The cooperative comprises approximately 400 members and is dedicated to producing quality wines while respecting tradition and the environment. The grapes for this Chianti are grown on hilly slopes in the southern Chianti region at altitudes ranging from 250 to 450 meters above sea level, with soils composed of sandy, tuffaceous, and clayey layers. The 2021 vintage is described as a "terrific Tuscan value."

## Interesting facts

- Tuscany's oldest and largest wine cooperative.
- Represents the work of nearly 400 member families.
- Founded in 1937 by 14 visionary founders.
- Awarded 94 points by Luca Maroni's 'Pleasantness Index'.

## Food pairing

The medium body and vibrant acidity of this Chianti make it a versatile food wine. Its tannins are well-suited to complement the proteins in meat dishes, while its savory notes can echo herbs and earthy flavors found in Tuscan cuisine. The acidity helps to cut through richer dishes, cleansing the palate.

## Wine making process

The grapes for Vecchia Cantina Chianti are hand-picked from vineyards located on hilly slopes in the southern Chianti region, at altitudes between 250-450 meters. The soils are a mix of sandy, tuffaceous, and clayey layers. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, with a maceration period of 10-14 days. Malolactic fermentation also takes place in stainless steel tanks. Some sources indicate a brief period in oak barrels for aging, while the Riserva version undergoes 2 years of oak aging. Vecchia Cantina di Montepulciano has extensive aging facilities.