Riecine

CHIANTI CLASSICO, ITALY | 2024

Riecine was founded in 1971 by Englishman John Dunkley and his wife, Palmina, in Gaiole in Chianti, and the estate released its first Chianti Classico in 1973. From the beginning, the focus was firmly on Sangiovese, at a time when many producers in the region were moving in a very different direction. Today, Riecine remains one of the benchmark estates in Gaiole, known for an elegant, transparent style of Chianti Classico.

The 2024 Chianti Classico is 100% Sangiovese from organically farmed vineyards around Gaiole, planted between 450 and 500 meters above sea level on limestone and clay soils. The vines average roughly 25 to 35 years old, and the fruit is harvested by hand, with selections made both in the vineyard and again on a vibrating sorting table.

Fermentation takes place in unlined Nomblot concrete tanks, with a maceration of roughly 15 to 20 days. The wine is then aged for 11 months in used French oak tonneaux, followed by at least three months in bottle before release. Production of the 2024 vintage was just over 56,000 bottles.

This is classic Riecine, bright and perfumed, with red cherry, wild strawberry, violet, dried herbs, and a savory, earthy edge. Medium bodied, with lively acidity and fine tannins, it has the freshness and restraint that makes great Chianti Classico so versatile at the table. I would drink this with pappardelle al ragù or simply grilled pork with rosemary.