Monte Bernardi Chianti Classico Riserva Docg 2022

The use of Monte Bernardi as a place name dates back to the year 1085, though for several centuries the grapes were sold to nearby farmers. The first vintage was released in 1992. The Schmelzer family, who purchased Monte Bernardi in 2003, has put a lot of time, love, and money into the vineyards and winery, located amongst the rolling hills in the southernmost part of Panzano, an area recognized as a Grand Cru of Chianti Classico.

The total land area of the Monte Bernardi estate is 53 hectares (130 acres), with 10 hectares (24 acres) dedicated to vineyards, many of which are more than 45 years old. The farm expanded its vineyard holdings by 5 leased hectares in 2001, bringing the total estate-managed vineyard area to 15 hectares.

The soil the vines are cultivated in has a high rock content and is a varied mixture of shale (Galestro), sandstone (Arenaria), and limestone (Alberese), depending on the vineyard. The vineyards have an ideal location, 350 meters above sea level, surrounded by woodlands, facing south, with the river Pesa flowing just a few hundred meters to the south.

For this wine, only the best grapes are selected from Sa’etta, a single vineyard which benefits from the best position, exposure and terrain on the estate. Vine age for this wine averages 55 years old. Fermented naturally in oak and stainless steel before aging 18-24 months (because it is a Riserva) in oak. Fragrant aromas of dark berry fruit, fresh red cherries and woodsy forest shrubs. On the palate, notes of black cherry, ripe blackberry and coffee beans. The wine has a long finish with hints of herbs and spice, bright acidity and structured tannins.