Barone Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico DOCG 2022

Barone Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico DOCG 2022

Brolio is an “annata” wine. It refers to the stipulated minimum of one year of ageing and also distinguishes it from the higher realms of Riserva, Cru and Gran Selezione

Grape Varietals & Region: It is a blend of 80% Sangiovese with 15% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes come from across the vineyards. With each plot vinified separately, the resulting blend is a selection of those most suitable for consistency and expression. The vineyards are at an altitude of 280 – 480m and they are grown on the five most representative soils in Brolio: Macigno del Chianti (sandstone), Scaglia Toscana (Galestro), Monte Morello (Alberese), Marine Deposit (sandy deposits and clay at deeper levels) and Ancient Fluvial Terrace (silty deposits with clay).

Taste Profile: Barone Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico has an intense ruby red with complex aromas of iris and violets, red fruits and balsamic scents. It is soft on the palate with elegant and smoothed tannins in the mouth. A true expression of the territory with well-balanced acidity and mineral tannins before a long finish.

Winemaing Process: The grapes have been harvested from the end of September to mid-October. After blending, the wine then matures for nine months in French oak tonneaux of second and third use, which adds complexity. The wine doesn’t get marked by wood flavours, but it picks up some tannin and softens in the barrel. After that, it’s bottled and released in June.

The Ricasoli Family

The Ricasoli family appeared among the feudal noble dignitaries in the court of Emperor Charlemagne. With their armies, generations of Ricasoli nobles have charted the course of history against the backdrop of Brolio Castle, defending Florence since 1200, from the eternal battles against Siena until the unity of Italy. Bettino Ricasoli, the Iron Baron, was twice Prime Minister of the newly united Italy after Cavour.

The history of the Ricasoli family has been linked to wine since 1141, when there is written testimony attesting that the Ricasoli family already possessed Brolio Castle. After centuries defending their lands and feudal sovereignty, the Ricasoli family understood the great potential of the Brolio territory and were among the first to dedicate themselves to the improvement of agriculture and vineyards. In fact, the family tree, reproduced in a print from 1584, is one of the first images of the Chianti area.

Francesco Ricasoli, current owner and President of the company, has generated new ideas and concepts to render the vineyards sustainable. The ongoing study of soil types and the clonal selection of the Brolio Sangiovese are among his greatest passions, and he has totally renovated the vineyards and completely mapped them.