True fact. A “fiasco” is name of the raffia basket found attached to the base of old-school Chianti bottles. Take that to your next pub quiz…
Vinetti De Fiorini Chianti Superiore DOCG 2014 $25
Grapes for a Superiore can come from any of the sub-regions within the region of Chianti. Superiore wines must be aged for at least nine months before release and must be approved by the Official DOCG Commission. Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Ciliegiolo and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes have been crafted into a super-smooth, savoury red, edged with wild cherry, pomegranate and a lick of leather on the tongue. Delicious.
Sip with: polpettone in tomato passata.
www.poshslosh.co.nz
Fattoria Di Basciano Chianti Rùfina DOCG 2015 $25.80
Located in the foothills of the Apennine’s, Rùfina is the smallest subregion of Chianti but also on of the most well-known. This Basciano is heaving with succulent red fruits, dried herbs and liquorice layers. It is velvety, sexy, savoury and I love it! Fact: Chianti Rùfina can’t be released for 12 months after harvest, six months longer than the typical Chianti.
Sip with: lamb and rosemary sausages.
www.touchofitaly.co.nz
Grati Chianti Rùfina DOCG 2015 $22.80
This blend of 90% Sangiovese, 7% Canaiolo Nero and 3% Colorino is a lightly-styled, spicy red that will clear the nose and soothe the throat on the first smiff and sip. Wild strawberry, cherry and peppery notes on the nose lead to a soft, fruit-saturated mouthfeel and a suede-like finish.
Sip with: Minestrone with prosciutto and potato dumplings.
www.stvincentscave.com
