Bibbiano Chianti Classico 2021
Tasting Profile
Brilliant ruby red with garnet highlights, this classic Chianti opens with elegant aromas of ripe cherries, wild strawberries, and red plums harmoniously layered with notes of violet, dried herbs, and subtle earthy undertones. The palate unfolds with bright red fruit flavors of sour cherry and cranberry complemented by savory hints of tobacco, baking spice, and leather. Medium-bodied with precise acidity and well-integrated tannins that provide structure while remaining approachable, leading to a long, clean finish with lingering notes of red berries and a pleasant touch of almond.
Winemaker Notes
Crafted by the Marrocchesi Marzi family at their historic Bibbiano estate in Castellina in Chianti, this wine represents centuries of winemaking tradition in the heart of Tuscany. The Sangiovese grapes are hand-harvested from organically farmed vineyards situated on the estate's limestone and clay-rich soils at elevations around 300 meters. Following traditional vinification, the wine ages primarily in large Slavonian oak casks for 12-14 months, allowing for gentle maturation that preserves the wine's varietal character while adding subtle complexity.
Vintage Notes
The 2021 vintage in Chianti Classico brought balanced conditions with warm days and cool nights during the critical ripening period. This diurnal temperature variation contributed to excellent phenolic development and preserved acidity, resulting in wines with remarkable freshness, aromatic intensity, and balanced structure that beautifully express the region's terroir.
Suggested Pairings
- Tuscan cuisine, especially bistecca alla fiorentina
- Pasta with wild boar or mushroom ragù
- Aged pecorino cheese
- Herb-roasted chicken
- Grilled vegetables with rosemary and olive oil
Technical Details
- Region: Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
- Classification: DOCG Chianti Classico
- Varietal: Predominantly Sangiovese with small percentages of traditional local varieties
- Alcohol: 13.5% ABV
- Aging: 12-14 months in Slavonian oak casks
- Contains sulfites
Cellaring
While drinking beautifully now, this wine has excellent aging potential and will continue to develop complexity for 5-8 years, with well-stored bottles potentially evolving even further.