2020 Monteraponi Bragantino Gran Selezione Chianti Classico

The 2020 Monteraponi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Bragantino is one of the most exceptional Sangiovese wines of Chianti Classico. This exclusive Gran Selezione is produced in a limited edition of only 1,333 bottles and comes from a young high-altitude vineyard that is now developing into one of Monteraponi's most promising plots. The wine combines the transparency and refinement for which Monteraponi is admired worldwide with remarkable energy, precision, and purity of fruit.

Monteraponi: one of the icons of Chianti Classico

Monteraponi has been among the absolute top of Chianti Classico for many years. The estate is located near Radda in Chianti, one of the highest and coolest parts of the appellation. Under the leadership of Michele and Alessandra Braganti, wines are produced here that are known for their elegance, terroir expression, and traditional approach.

The vineyards are situated at an altitude of approximately 560 meters and are farmed organically. The combination of altitude, calcareous soils, and a relatively cool climate results in wines with striking freshness and great aging potential.

For more information about Monteraponi, please refer to the Winery tab.

Bragantino: a new chapter for Monteraponi

Bragantino is a relatively new wine within the Monteraponi range. The vineyard was planted in 2015 on a pristine plot above the historic village of Monteraponi. The plot is situated at an altitude of 560 meters, has a southern exposure, and consists entirely of alberese, the calcareous bedrock soil responsible for much of the tension and minerality of the great wines from Radda.

The vineyard is planted exclusively with Sangiovese. For the planting material, a selection from Isole e Olena was used, specifically from the plot that became known for the iconic Cepparello. The first harvest took place in 2019 and immediately formed the basis for this Gran Selezione.

The name Bragantino refers to Michele Braganti himself. As a child, he was affectionately called "Bragantino" within the family, a reference to the family name Braganti. The label features a painting by the renowned artist Tirinnanzi from Greve-in-Chianti, a close friend of Michele's father.

Traditional winemaking without compromise

Like all great wines from Monteraponi, Bragantino is produced entirely traditionally. Fermentation takes place spontaneously in concrete vats without temperature control and without the addition of selected yeasts. Subsequently, the wine remains in contact with the skins for approximately forty days, during which daily manual racking is performed.

Malolactic fermentation also takes place in concrete. Afterwards, the wine ages for at least 42 months in large oval wooden botti from Burgundy, followed by another eight months of bottle aging before the wine is released.

The wine is neither clarified nor filtered, preserving all the nuances of terroir and vintage.

Scent, taste and character

The 2020 Bragantino immediately displays Monteraponi's refined style. Wild cherries, red currants, and raspberries dominate the aroma, supported by notes of white pepper, Mediterranean herbs, dried flowers, and subtle earthy nuances.

In addition, layers of graphite, spices, and a refined chalky minerality typical of the Alberese soils of Radda unfold. Despite the warm character of the vintage, the wine remains remarkably fresh and transparent.

On the palate, Bragantino displays an impressive combination of energy and precision. The wine is lively, crisp, and focused, with bright acidity supporting the pure Sangiovese fruit expression. The tannins are present yet refined, providing structure without disrupting the elegance.

The core of red and dark cherries is complemented by peppery nuances, spices, and mineral accents. What impresses most is the purity of the fruit. The wine never feels heavy, but remains consistently energetic and refined.

The finish is long, fresh, and mineral-driven, with persistent notes of cherries, spices, and chalky tension typical of the best terroirs of Chianti Classico.

Professional reviews

The 2020 Bragantino confirms the rapidly growing reputation of this young Gran Selezione.

Vinous: 96 points (Antonio Galloni)
Galloni calls the wine an impressive successor to the first vintage and praises the energy, freshness, and pure Sangiovese expression. According to him, the fruit purity of this wine is among the most fascinating within Chianti Classico.

The Wine Advocate: 94 points (Monica Larner)
Larner emphasizes that the wine never becomes heavy, despite the warm vintage. She praises the transparency, clarity, and finesse that are so characteristic of Monteraponi.

Both reviews confirm that Bragantino is now more than an interesting new project. The wine is rapidly developing into one of the region's most characterful Gran Selezione wines.

With only 1,333 bottles produced, Bragantino is one of the most exclusive wines of Monteraponi. The combination of a unique high-altitude vineyard, exceptional terroir expression, and highly traditional vinification results in a wine that appeals to both lovers of classic Chianti Classico and collectors of great Sangiovese. For those wishing to discover the most refined side of Radda in Chianti, Bragantino is undoubtedly one of the most interesting Gran Selezione wines of the moment.

At Grandcruwijnen, you will find a carefully selected assortment from the best Italian estates. All wines are stored under optimal conditions and can be shipped or picked up at our store in Dordrecht.