2020 Gagliole, Agricola - Colli della Toscana Centrale IGT Gagliole (750ml)
Gagliole traces its name to royal records dating back to 994 AD, and since 1990 the estate has been owned by the Swiss Bär-Bettschart family, Monika and Thomas, whose deep affection for this corner of Chianti eventually led them from admirers to winegrowers themselves. In 2011 the family expanded with the acquisition of Tenuta la Valletta in Panzano, bringing the estate's total holdings to 20 hectares, all farmed with sustainability and organic practices in mind.
The flagship Gagliole bottling is 100% Sangiovese sourced from estate vines in Panzano, aged 15 to 30 years, grown at 450 to 500 meters on medium-textured pietraforte rock with south-southwest exposure. Grapes are hand harvested into small boxes and carefully selected in the cellar, then fermented with indigenous yeasts before spending at least a year in French oak, about 30% new, with further aging in large oak casks and cement before bottling.
The 2020 shows an intense ruby-red color and a rich, expressive nose of cedar, pipe tobacco, mint, dried flowers, and mocha. The palate is full and well balanced, with ripe cherry and blackberry fruit, soft texture, and a saline, floral finish that lingers. It's a natural partner for grilled meats, game, or a hearty pasta dish.