Profile: Gagliole

~ Panorama of the Gagliole Estate, in Castellina in Chianti, shows the terraced olive groves and Cypress lined road that is the Estate's hallmark ~

Gagliole  (Gah-YO-lay) 

Digging through the ancient archives of Siena, one will find mention of the Gagliole estate as early as 994 AD, the time when King Berengarius bequeathed the estate to his wife.  Miraculously, the passing of centuries left this estate remarkably untouched.  One aspect of this unaffected passing of time can be seen in the terraced vineyards and vine rows which are dotted randomly with olive trees, a clear method and belief in cross pollination agriculture common in the Middle Ages.  

Today, the estate is owned by Monika and Thomas Bar who met in Tuscany and decided to return from their native Switzerland in order to pursue their passion for wine in the place where they first met.  

~ The alleys and nooks of Castellina in Chianti brim with stories and life ~

Although the Gagliole Estate is located in Castellina in Chianti, the property's vineyard holdings are split evenly between Castellina (10 hectares) and Panzano (also 10 hectares).  Through constant renewal and dedication to detail, the Bars carefully manicure their vineyards which are now between 2 and 40 years of age.  

Today's review is the first in a series of articles profiling the wines of Gagliole.  I've been aware of Gagliole for many years, but admittedly, they were never squarely on my radar.  That changed a few years ago when I reacquainted myself with their wines at the Vias portfolio tasting and I'm the better off for it.  Winemaker Giulio Carmassi, along with vineyard manager Cesare Panti, are creating wonderful wines that are worthy of your attention. 

~ Castellina in Chianti ~

The 2013 Gagliole Colli Toscana Centrale simply bears the name of the estate.  It's one of Gagliole's flagship wines and is typically produced in only the best vintages, (2012 was skipped).  We decanted the wine for 30 minutes before dinner, which was a comforting pancetta draped meatloaf with escarole and beans.  Rustic and delicious, the wine paired perfectly. 

In the glass, the wine is a shimmering medium ruby with a slight fade to brick at the rim of the glass. The aromas are wonderful and feature bright crushed cherry, high toned floral notes, cypress/pine hints and pretty spice and tobacco notes.  On the palate, the flavors follow the aromas with a full bodied core of wild cherry taking center stage.  Elegant, concentrated and long, this blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet is delicious now, but can easily rest in your cellar for 3-5 years.  Gagliole is aged 16 months in French barrique and then 6 months in bottle prior to release.  Not at the level of the amazing 2011, but not that far behind either.  91 points and fairly priced around $35-$40.  Disclosure: This bottle was an importer provided sample.

~ The color of this predominantly Sangiovese wine is classic, as is its aromatic and flavor profile ~

Stay tuned for more in the coming weeks from Gagliole.


Salute!