Querciabella Chianti Classico 2003 – Super Chianti from an Artisan of Wine

No longer a Chianti, not yet a Super Tuscan. We are always trying to categorize, label or describe things in a context that we know. Sometimes we are pleasantly surprised to find an unusual item that does not fit in the box. Querciabella Chianti Classico is Chianti. It is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot, Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon. It is produced in the region of Chianti and the method of production follows the time honored traditional methods but, Querciabella Chianti Classico is no simple Chianti.

Querciabella is marvelous boutique producer of medium and high quality wines. Their competence as artisan winemakers is evident in each of the wines they produce. Querciabella is a family owned winery that embraces the traditional methods of products and the highest quality standards. The Chianti Classico 2003 is an example of what passion and competence can produce. Raffaella quickly coined a new phrase to describe this wine, a Super Chianti. It is not a Sassicaia but it is one of the best Chianti Classico we have ever tasted. The Sangiovese gives structure and complexity the Merlot or Syrah smoothes the wine and the aging in 2 and 3 year old French oak barrels completes the experience with marked tannins.

So I salute this Super Chianti, its complex and rounded flavor, the passion and competence of the family at Querciabella and the opportunity to drink this wonderful wine on many occasions.

Grape: Sangiovese 90% - 10% Merlot, Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Color: Deep Red with Orange fingernails.

Bouquet: Mature Cherries and sweet spices, like vanilla and cinnamon.

Flavor: Full-bodied, complex and structured, enveloping, distinct tannins, cherries, prunes, liquorices, and dark tobacco.

Alcohol Content: 13.5 %

Serving Temperature: 15-18 c.

Decanting: at least ½ hour.

Pouring: Pour slowly, angle at 55 degrees or less.

Glass: Wide-bellied Red Wine Glass.

Aging: This wine is released 18 months after harvest. It reaches maturity 2-3 years after harvest and will maintain its high quality at least 10 years and perhaps longer.

Tags: Querciabella Chianti Red Wine Italian Wine Tuscany Sommelier Food and Wine Travel Italy