Ser Gioveto

~ The pristine cellars of Rocca delle Macie in Castellina in Chianti ~

In 1973, when Italo Zingarelli purchased what has now become the Rocca delle Macie estate,  the property was little more than a dilapidated 14th century farmhouse surrounded by neglected vineyards just beyond the center of Castellina in Chianti.   

Leaving nothing to chance,  the Zingarelli's embarked upon a rigorous effort to rebuild the stone farmhouse,  replant the vineyards, and construct a state of the art winery on the property.  Today, Italo's son Sergio runs the estate as a family business where he lives with his wife and two children.  Rocca delle Macie is home. 

~ Sergio Zingarelli, now head of the Chianti Classico Consorzio ~

 

Today the estate covers almost 300 hectares in total, though only about 130 hectares, spread across for estates in Chianti Classico, are dedicated to vineyards.  The subject of today's article was first conceived by Italo Zingarelli in 1985, the year current owner Sergio began working beside him.  The name of the wine derives from the ancient name of Sangiovese - "Sangioveto" - and the first part of Sergio's name.   First vinified in stainless steel,  the wine is placed into barrique for 9-14 months depending upon the vintage and then transferred to bottle where it spends an additional 9 months prior to release. 

The 2010 Rocca delle Macie Ser Gioveto is  80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, and 10% Cabernt though at this stage, one would be hard pressed to find the international grapes exerting much influence over this blend. 

This deep ruby colored wine has classy aromas of crushed berry and bright focused floral notes that mingle amidst a backdrop of cake spices.  It smells like high toned, aromatic Sangiovese and I love that. 

On the palate, the wine is concentrated, with a medium to full bodied core of ripe wild cherry fruit, loads of fennel, bright tobacco and herb notes and hints of spicy red plums.  The tannins and acids are well balanced and provide freshness and structure to this enticing red.  Drinks well now or can cellar up to 5 years.  Good value around $25.  90 points. 

~ Ser Gioveto is 80% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot and 10% Cabernet ~

Salute!