2017 Verrazzano - Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Valdonica (750ml)

Castello di Verrazzano's history in the Chianti hills stretches back more than eight centuries, with vineyards on the property first documented in a manuscript from 1150. The estate was a founding member of the Chianti Classico Consorzio and is also known as the birthplace of the explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, credited as the first European to reach the bay that would become New York. Today the property is owned by the Cappellini family, who farm the vineyards organically and continue a long tradition of estate winemaking in Greve in Chianti.

Valdonica is one of Verrazzano's cru bottlings within the Gran Selezione tier, made from roughly 95 percent Sangiovese blended with a small portion of other red varieties grown on the estate. The grapes ferment at a controlled temperature with an extended maceration of 15 to 17 days, allowing the wine to build both color and structure. It then ages for a minimum of 24 months in small oak barrels before a further six months resting in bottle prior to release.

The 2017 shows pronounced black fruit and smoky cherry notes, with hints of toasted nuts and cinnamon. The palate is smooth yet concentrated, with real vigor carrying through the finish. It pairs well with grilled Florentine-style steak, cured salumi, or a hearty bean and sausage stew.