Climate

The 2022 growing season began with a rainy winter season abundantly replenishing groundwater reserves in the vineyards. Budbreak took place at the end of March-beginning of April, slightly later compared to 2021. The last half of April brought cooler temperatures that slowed down vine growth. Flowering took place during the last half of May which was about 10 days later than last year. The following weeks delivered hot, dry weather that boosted vegetative growth and partially made up for lost time. Beautiful weather prevailed from the end of spring throughout summer and was accompanied by ideal temperature swings between day and night ensuring an optimal ripening phase.

Timing of the harvest was similar to past years; it began the second week of September with international grape varieties and was completed with Sangiovese by mid-October.

Fermentation and Aging

Harvested grapes were brought to the cellar, destemmed, and crushed. The must was transferred to stainless steel vats where alcoholic fermentation and maceration on the skins took place over a period of 10-12 days at a temperature of 28 °C (82 °F), performing gentle pump overs. Malolactic fermentation took place in the month of November and the wine was then aged in stainless steel vats.

Tasting Notes

Chianti Superiore Santa Cristina is ruby red with purplish highlights. On the nose it is rich with fruity notes of morello cherries, aromatic herbs and balsamic sensations. Its palate is soft, mouth filling with velvety tannins and a long savory finish.