2013 Monteraponi Chianti Classico

Region: Tuscany < Italy
Grapes: Sangiovese (95%), Canaiolo
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Organic farming, ‘Galestro’ soil (a type of rocky limestone clay) low SO2
Winemaker: Michele Braganti

This is a beautiful, focused and traditional example of Sangiovese, from rising star and Chianti purist Michele Braganti (and about as natural as they come in Tuscany). The high-elevation Monteraponi estate near the village of Radda has existed since the 10th century but was revived when Michele started making superb Chianti in a traditional style with only indigenous Tuscan grapes (no international varieties), organic farming, native yeast fermentation, aging in cement tank and large barrels, and no fining/filtering. Lush red berry fruit in the mouth with layers of mineral, cedar, tobacco leaf and earth finishing with firm tannin structure and a dusty, mineral note. I visited Michele last summer, discussed Chianti politics with him, and tasted his wine directly from barrels. He’s the real deal, and his wines will make you reconsider Chianti.