2016 Terreno - Chianti Classico Gran Selezione A Sofia (750ml)

Terreno is a small, organic estate in Montefioralle, above Greve in Chianti, founded by the Ruhne family in 1988. The winery is now led by Sofia Ruhne, who took over from her father in 2015 after years working alongside him, and who has become an outspoken advocate for recognizing Chianti Classico's individual villages, or UGAs, as distinct expressions of terroir. Her approach favors patience and precision, letting each vineyard's character come through with minimal intervention in the cellar.

A Sofia is Terreno's top cru, made only in years the estate considers exceptional, and 2016 is widely regarded as one of the finest Chianti Classico vintages of the past decade, marked by a long, even growing season. The wine is sourced from the estate's oldest parcel, planted in the early 1980s, using 100 percent estate-grown Sangiovese. It matures for roughly thirty months in large oak casks before further bottle aging, a slow, unhurried process suited to a vintage built for the long term.

Expect a perfumed nose of red cherry, pomegranate, and blood orange, with undertones of rose and warm spice. The palate is dense yet fresh, framed by fine, persistent tannins and lively acidity that carries through a long finish. It suits herb-roasted chicken, a Tuscan salumi board, or pasta with a rich tomato and beef ragu.