Riecine Chianti Classico

Tasting Note

100% Sangiovese made in a classical style, medium bodied with lots of fruit character, light tannins and a spicy finish. It is authentic and true to the Gaiole terroir.

About the Producer

Located in the heart of Tuscany, in the small community of Gaiole in Chianti, Riecine is amongst the finest vineyards in all of Italy and works as a classic winery. The wine is aged 18 months in barriques before blending and bottled. Production is small with only 3300 cases produced.

The founder, John Dunkley, an Englishman who became one of the most admired pioneers of Chianti Classico, and his Italian wife, Palmina, acquired the original 1.5 hectares of land in 1971 from a nearby monastery, Badia a Coltibuono. They restored the old stone villa on the land and began reviving and replanting vines. The first vintage of Chianti Classico, 1973, was released in 1975 to a flourish of praise.

In 1991, a young winemaker, Sean O’Callaghan was brought into Riecine to take on responsibility for the winemaking process. Sean, John and Palmina worked together to continue the tradition of producing top-quality Chianti Classico and Sangiovese-based wines. Although John and Palmina are no longer around, their inspiration still guides the philosophy and work at Riecine.

Sean O’Callaghan employs a completely natural approach to winemaking. Fermentations are by naturally occurring yeasts. About 10-20% of the grape juice (salasso) is run off prior to fermentation, leaving a higher ratio of skin contact to must. This really concentrates the wines.