2021 Melini, La Selvanella - Chianti Classico Riserva - 6 Bottles (0.75L)

Melini’s ‘La Selvanella’ Chianti Classico Riserva—produced by this major Tuscan estate—is a Sangiovese of historic significance, having been the first Chianti Classico labeled as the expression of a single vineyard. First produced with the 1969 vintage, the ‘La Selvanella’ *cru* stands as a testament to the foresight that has always defined Melini’s winemaking philosophy. Spanning a full 50 hectares in the territory of Radda in Chianti, the vineyard is the result of a massal selection of Sangiovese vines originally planted in the 1960s.

Melini’s ‘La Selvanella’ Chianti Classico Riserva is crafted from 100% Sangiovese grapes grown in a single vineyard situated at an altitude of approximately 400 meters above sea level. The vines are rooted in soils composed of *alberese* (limestone-marl), *galestro* (schistous clay), and calcareous marl, benefiting from an excellent south-westerly exposure. After the harvest, the grapes are transferred to the winery and placed in stainless steel tanks, where alcoholic fermentation takes place in contact with the skins for about three weeks. Once fermentation is complete, the wine is transferred to French oak barrels for a 30-month aging period, followed by bottling and a further resting period of at least one year in the bottle.

In the glass, Melini’s ‘La Selvanella’ Chianti Classico Riserva reveals a ruby ​​red color with subtle garnet hues. The aromatic profile is a complex mosaic featuring intriguing notes of raspberry and ripe plum, forest floor, balsamic herbs, toasted almond, leather, and sweet spices such as cinnamon and vanilla. Complex and elegant on the palate, where full warmth is balanced by excellent freshness and savoriness, leading to a flavorful, persistent finish with fruity and spicy notes that mirror the nose.