Profile of a Masterpiece: Chianti Classico Riserva “Vigna Il Poggio” Castello Monsanto
Noble Origins
Chianti Classico Riserva “Vigna Il Poggio” from Castello Monsanto is an emblematic example of Italian winemaking excellence, rooted in the winemaking traditions of the heart of Tuscany. Originating from one of the oldest estates in the area, Castello Monsanto is celebrated for producing wines that reflect the richness and complexity of the terroir.
Vineyard and Terroir
The “Il Poggio” vineyard lies on a sunny slope, characterized by a clay soil with rich veins of limestone, ideal for the cultivation of Sangiovese. The privileged position and the careful management of the vineyard allow to obtain superior quality grapes, pure expression of the variety and the local microclimate.
Vinification Process
The winemaking process of Castello Monsanto’s Chianti Classico Riserva “Vigna Il Poggio” is an excellent example of how traditional techniques and modern innovations can merge to create a wine of extraordinary quality and complexity. Here is a detailed description of the process:
Selection of Grapes
The first crucial step in the creation of “Vigna Il Poggio” is the careful selection of grapes. Sangiovese, the protagonist of this wine, is harvested exclusively from old vineyards that produce high quality grapes with an ideal concentration of sugars and acids. Harvesting is done manually, ensuring that only the best, perfectly ripe grapes are chosen for vinification.
Vinification
After harvest, the grapes are transported to the winery where they undergo an initial selection and are then destemmed. This process removes stems from the grapes, which could impart unwanted flavors and tannins to the wine. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the varietal characteristics of the Sangiovese and ensure optimal control of the process. During fermentation, which lasts about two weeks, the must is regularly remontaged. This means that the wine is pumped from the bottom of the tank over the cap of skins that forms on the surface, thus ensuring optimal extraction of color, tannins and aromas.
Aging
Once alcoholic fermentation is complete, the wine is transferred to French and Slavonian oak barrels for aging. “Vigna Il Poggio” spends up to 18 months in these barrels, where it also undergoes malolactic fermentation. This second fermentation transforms the more tart malic acid into softer lactic acid, sweetening the wine and integrating the flavors. The barrels used are a mix of new and old, so as not to overpower the wine with excessive wood notes, but rather to enrich it with complexity and structure. After barrel aging, the wine is bottled and left to age further in the bottle for several months before being released to the market.
Bottling
The last step is bottling, which is carried out with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that the wine does not undergo oxidation or contamination. Even at this stage, great care is taken to preserve the organoleptic qualities of the wine.
Quality Control
Before, during and after vinification, the wine undergoes strict quality controls. Samples are tasted regularly to ensure that the wine reflects Castello Monsanto’s high standards and fully expresses the terroir from which it originates. Through this sophisticated winemaking process, Chianti Classico Riserva “Vigna Il Poggio” emerges as a wine of great expression, capable of representing the elegance and power of Sangiovese in a unique and memorable way.
Price and Gastronomic Pairings
This wine, which starts at a price of about €200 per bottle, represents an investment for connoisseurs. Chianti Classico Riserva “Vigna Il Poggio” from Castello Monsanto, with its robust structure and complex aromatic profile, offers exceptional versatility for food pairings. Here are some detailed suggestions on how to best enhance the qualities of this wine through cooking:
Red Meats and Game
The full body and well-balanced tannins of “Vigna Il Poggio” pair beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats, such as a Florentine steak or roast beef. The wine’s richness balances the succulence of the meat, while its tannins blend with the protein, softening the mouthfeel and intensifying the flavors. Game preparations, such as wild boar stew or hare alla cacciatora, are also ideal, as the game’s intense flavors are complemented by the wine‘s earthy, spicy notes.
Truffle Dishes
Chianti Classico Riserva “Vigna Il Poggio” pairs exceptionally well with truffle-rich dishes, such as black truffle tagliolini or white truffle risotto. The aromatic profile of the wine, with its earthy and spicy nuances, complements the aromatic depth of the truffle, creating a complex and memorable sensory experience.
Ripened Cheeses
A classic pairing for this Chianti Classico Riserva is mature, aged cheeses. Varieties such as Tuscan pecorino, parmesan reggiano or an intense sweet gorgonzola can be magnificent choices. The wine has the structure to keep up with the richness of the cheeses, while its natural acidity and smooth tannins cut through the creaminess, balancing each bite.
Mushroom and Herb Dishes
Preparations of dishes with porcini mushrooms or other woodland varieties, perhaps enriched with herbs such as rosemary or thyme, are excellent to accompany “Vigna Il Poggio.” These earthy and aromatic ingredients reflect and enhance the natural notes of the wine, creating a harmonious and satisfying pairing.
Recipes with Rich Sauces
Dishes with rich and complex sauces, such as braised meats with red wine reductions or pasta dishes with meat sauce, benefit from pairing with this Chianti Classico Riserva. The wine, with its complexity and structure, not only holds its own against the intense flavors of the sauces but elevates them, adding another level of flavor to the dish.
Conservation and Service
To keep the wine’s qualities intact, store it in a temperature-controlled cellar, away from light and vibration. It is recommended to serve it at a temperature of 18°C (64°F), in large crystal goblets, which promote oxygenation and allow the bouquet to fully unfold. The Chianti Classico Riserva “Vigna Il Poggio” is a wine that celebrates the richness of Sangiovese and the art of Tuscan winemaking, offering a taste experience that remains etched in time. A true treasure for wine lovers.
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The rich and fertile soil, together with the favorable climate, creates ideal conditions for growing the vines from which Chianti, a red wine that has gained international fame and appreciation, is made. But Chianti is not only synonymous with food and wine excellence; it is also a land rich in history. Castles, parishes and medieval villages dot the area, bearing witness to centuries of conflict, trade and daily life that shaped this region. The Chianti hills offer breathtaking scenery, with their winding roads winding between rows of vines and cultivated fields, providing picture-postcard scenery at every turn. This land is a permanent invitation to exploration for both nature lovers and history and culture enthusiasts. Walks and hikes on foot, bicycle or horseback allow you to fully immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of the area, discovering hidden corners and unforgettable views. Life in the Chianti hills flows slowly, respectful of the seasons and the traditions that have guided the lives of its inhabitants for generations. Daily activities are often linked to the land and its cycles, with the grape harvest in the fall and the olive harvest in the winter marking the rhythm of rural life. The people of Chianti are custodians of an invaluable cultural and gastronomic heritage, always ready to share the secrets of their land with visitors through festivals, tastings and meetings. Castello di Montegufoni is nestled in this idyllic setting, providing an ideal starting point for exploring the riches of Chianti. Its privileged location makes it possible to enjoy the serene beauty of the Tuscan landscape while experiencing firsthand the history, art, and food and wine traditions that have made this region world famous.
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Whether for a journey to discover the masterpieces of Renaissance art, a tour of the renowned Chianti wineries or a gastronomic adventure among the authentic flavors of Tuscan cuisine, Villa Sonia promises a stay of excellence. 
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