Classico: Monteraponi

~ The Entrance to Monteraponi,  Radda in Chianti ~

Monteraponi;  a tiny, forest enclosed monopole just outside the center of Radda and lovingly tended by "Il Uomo" - proprietor and winemaker Michele Braganti.  There's been lots written about Monteraponi on these pages and with good reason;  the wines are pure, focused, traditional examples of Sangiovese. 

When I visited Monteraponi in July of 2014, the subject of today's article was still resting in barrel.  I looked back on my notes and enjoyed the wine then and it's interesting to note that it appears a carbon copy of that experience.  

~ Winemaker Michele Braganti has quite the nice bass ~

The 2013 Chianti Classico is the most recent release from the estate.   The wine is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo.  International grapes aren't seen at Monteraponi and as Michele is quick to remind; "Classcio" cannot be Classico, if it includes foreign grapes.  

In the glass, this medium ruby wine has violet reflections.  Aromatically,  traditional all the way - and it smells like the air at Monteraponi.  Soft pine, leaf tobacco and soft cherry fruit round out the aromas.  On the palate, the wine is medium bodied with a soft, elegant feel to the flavors of red berry, tobacco leaf, and autumn leaves.  A dusty, mineral note laces the finish which has come to be the hallmark of Braganti's wines.   Not a bruiser and not a wine that needs any length of time in the cellar, but it's bright and pleasant to drink right now.   Retail in my area is around $26 and at that price, not the greatest QPR.   87 points.  

~ The tasty 2013 Monteraponi Chianti Classico.  Watch for the release of Monteraponi's single vineyard wines in 2013;  Il Campitello and Baron Ugo Riserva ~

Salute!