TOSCANA Greve in Chianti
Villa Calcinaia is only one of two wineries introduced to me by American friends. The referral came from Tom Hyland, wine writer and teacher specializing in Italian wine, who tried the wine I think at a tasting with their national importer in Cleveland. I think it was late 2003. At first I wasn’t really interested because I was doing only wines from the northern region of Italy with a focus on Friuli.
But when I went to VinItaly in Verona in 2004 I meet Sebastiano Capponi and tried his wines. To be honest, I was blown away by the VinSanto. And then I thought no one admits to liking sweet wine so I can’t rely on the VinSanto to get into a lot of stores and restaurants. If he can make sweet wine that’s so incredible the Chianti Classicos must be pretty good too. And at least they are located at the more northern edge of the Chianti Classico region. So I went for it.
It was the right decision. Not only because over the years many people told me they never liked Chianti Classico until they tasted one of these. But also the expression reflected in each style he makes, some old vines, some young vines, some aged in cement, some in stainless, some in barrel, always reflects the soil they come from, the exposure and the vintage itself. And the VinSanto…well that’s a whole other conversation. Or you can just enjoy the wine.
When I visited the vineyard and the Villa that has been in the family since 1524 it really entered my heart. It’s one of the places where I have to spend time on every trip to Italy. Sebastiano comes to Chicago at least once a year; sometimes more than that, when he can work it out. He really appreciates the store tastings we’re able to do particularly on the weekends and the people he’s met at them. Some of those people have celebrated their weddings at Villa Calcinaia. Or come to visit with their families and friends.
I could go on and on. The best thing you can do is try their wines! And especially come and say hello to Sebastiano at one of our tastings the next time he’s able to be here.
| VILLA CALCINAIA | TOSCANA Greve in Chianti; certified organic 2016 |
| Vin Santo (375 ml) | There’s a reason this is called “sacred wine;” it’s divine! So much to say, I’m speechless. 93pts from the Wine Enthusiast. |
| Comitale Bianco | Field blend, Gewurztraminer, Malvasia Bianca,Grechetto, Vernaccia; rogue grapes planted in late 60’s make a wine you want all the time |
| Rosato | Still solid as all good Rosato should be! Dry, flavors of strawberry and pomegranate. Wonderful for summer but made for fall dishes and Thanksgiving too! And on into winter if we still have any! |
| Chianti Classico | Surprisingly vibrant. Great nose, structure, balance, longevity, integrity; lower alcohol. Excellent vintage! So expressive of its homeland. 90pts Suckling |
| Chianti Classico (375 ml) | |
| Chianti Classico Riserva | This is a dry, rich wine with supple dark fruits, hints of tobacco and chocolate framed by buoyant acidity with velvety tannins. 89pts Suckling; 92pts W&S |
| Chianti Classico Gran Selezione “Vigna Contessa Luisa” |
Single vineyard, beautiful nose, medium body with surprising tannin and acidity, elegant, graceful, vines planted in 1959 facing west. 94pts Suckling. |
| Chianti Classico Gran Selezione “Vigna Bastignano” |
Single terraced vineyard, cultivated from proprietary 100 year old plants; elegant; beautiful nose, exceptional balance and grace; 91pts Decanter |
| Casarsa IGT | 100% old vine Merlot; a serious love affair! Rich, complex, very expressive of its territory. 93 pts Wine Spectator |
| Mammolo | Ancient varietal; name means violets because of the aromas; round, spicy, rustic, unique earthy flavors; medium body; very flavorful without being heavy; perfect for charcuterie and so much else |
| Occhiorosso | Name means red eye because of the buds; complex, notes of rooibos tea; blackberry. Grape officially doesn’t exist. Only he grows it; of course I have it! SPECIAL ORDER |
| Sanforte | Thought to be “strong Sangiovese” until it wasn’t Sangiovese at all. Unique indigenous varietal with a long history at VC. Strong berry flavors, tobacco, and that mysterious “je ne sais quoi.”
SPECIAL ORDER |
| Le Refie | Petit Manseng, Marsanne, Viognier: intense, aromatic and spicy aromas. Fresh, savory taste, great texture. Sweetness balanced by a lively acidity and a long mineral finish. Aged cheese in particular or crème brulee with gorgonzola! |
| VILLA CALCINAIA Young Vines |
TOSCANA Greve in Chianti |
| Chianti Classico “Cappone” | 100% Sangiovese; younger vines, rustic, more traditional style; that’s our guy! |
| Piegaia Chianti Classico | 90% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot; softer more modern style; a Chianti for everyone, every day. 89pts Wine Enthusiast |
| VILLA CALCINAIA Olive Oil and Vinegar |
TOSCANA Greve in Chianti |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil DOP | DOP 100% organic; estate grown, blend of Moraiolo and Correggiolo olives: |
| Wine Vinegar (250 ml) | DOP Made in Modena from 100% Villa Calcinaia Sangiovese; Minimum 12 bottles; great fruit |