# Vicoregio 36 (2020)

- **Producer:** Marchesi Mazzei
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €65
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** dried herbs, black plum, red plum, red cherry, black cherry, cloves, cedar, vanilla, leather, tobacco, forest floor, earth

## About this wine

The Vicoregio 36 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG is a testament to Marchesi Mazzei's long-standing winemaking heritage, stretching back over 600 years. This wine originates from an experimental vineyard in Castelnuovo Berardenga, Tuscany, planted with 36 distinct Sangiovese biotypes, including 18 clones and 18 massal selections from old vineyards. This unique approach aims to explore the full genetic potential of Sangiovese, embodying the essence of a Cru, a monovarietal, and a blend simultaneously. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm summer with notable diurnal temperature shifts, contributing to the grapes' quality.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard planted with 36 different Sangiovese biotypes.
- Represents a 'Cru' concept for Sangiovese.
- Mazzei family winemaking history dates to the 11th century.
- Experimental vineyard concept for genetic diversity.

## Food pairing

The wine's firm tannins and robust structure are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in rich meat dishes, while its lively acidity cuts through richness. Herbal notes in the wine can echo those in seasoned dishes, creating harmonious flavor bridges.

## Wine making process

The Vicoregio 36 is produced using traditional red fermentation methods in truncated conical steel vats or French oak barrels, with temperatures maintained between 26-28°C. Maceration lasts for 20 to 24 days. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for over 20 months in French oak barrels, including 50% new oak, and then spends an additional 4 months in cement tanks. The grapes are hand-harvested, with the 2020 vintage characterized by healthy fruit with thick skins. The winemaking is underpinned by an innovative approach involving an experimental vineyard dedicated to exploring the genetic diversity of 36 Sangiovese biotypes.