2020 Antinori Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano

When you say 'wine' in Italy, you say 'Antinori'! This family has been making wine for more than six centuries. With respect for the traditions of the Tuscan countryside, 26 successive generations of Antinori have been involved in this. It is the eye for tradition and innovation that has made the Antinori house what it is today: the top of Italy. Badia a Passignano is a famous castle on the hilltop near Tenuta Tignanello. Marchese Antinori has been producing its top Chianti Classico here for years. In recent years, this category has been baptized Gran Selezione. In other words, the best of the best in the Chianti Classico area. Great wine, just as robust and sturdy as the castle it is named after.

Antinori Badia a Passignano Gran Selezione is produced exclusively from the best Sangiovese grapes, harvested from the eponymous vineyard in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. The region has been respected and appreciated for its excellent wine production since the year 1000. The vineyards grow at an altitude of about 300 meters above sea level on soils rich in limestone with a fair amount of clay. The wine is aged in the historic cellars beneath the Badia (abbey) of Passignano which dates back to the 10th century.

After destemming, the berries were carefully selected and gently crushed. The alcoholic fermentation lasted for 10 days and was followed by an additional period of 10-12 days of maceration on the skins. After completion of the malolactic fermentation, which took place in stainless steel tanks, the different batches were tasted, carefully selected and blended. Badia a Passignano was aged for 12 months in Hungarian oak barrels and a smaller percentage in French oak, before being bottled and then had a further 18 months of bottle ageing in the impressive cellars before being available.

The Antirnori Badia a Passignano is ruby red in colour. The nose has a remarkable intensity: notes of ripe red fruit, cherries in alcohol and sour cherries subtly mingle with soft balsamic notes and hints of aromatic herbs. The bouquet is completed by spicy notes of cloves and chocolate. In the mouth, the rich entry gives way to well-integrated tannins, supported by a delicious fruitiness and excellent freshness.