Querciabella Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2018 1.5L

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1974 by Giuseppe Castiglioni, Querciabella is a renowned winery situated in Tuscany’s Chianti Classico region. The estate has been a pioneer in adopting organic practices since 1988 and biodynamic viticulture by 2000, emphasizing sustainability and environmental stewardship. This commitment has positioned Querciabella as a leader in producing wines that authentically express the unique terroir of their vineyards. The Chianti Classico Riserva represents the pinnacle of their Sangiovese production, blending grapes from the estate’s finest parcels in Greve, Radda, and Gaiole. 

Producer and Winemaker

Under the guidance of Sebastiano Cossia Castiglioni, Querciabella continues to uphold its philosophy of minimal intervention and respect for nature. The winemaking team focuses on creating wines that reflect the purity and character of the Sangiovese grape. Their approach combines meticulous vineyard management with precise vinification methods to ensure each bottle embodies the essence of its origin. 

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Sangiovese grapes for the Riserva are sourced from high-altitude vineyards in Greve, Radda, and Gaiole. In Greve, the south-facing vineyards have soils composed of sandstone rocks and galestro, with elevations between 350 and 550 meters above sea level. Radda’s vineyards, at around 450 meters, feature galestro-rich soils, contributing to persistent tannins and darker fruit profiles. Gaiole’s vineyards, at 500 meters, have calcium carbonate-rich soils, delivering riper fruit expressions and marked acidity due to the presence of limestone rocks known as Albarese. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2018 Riserva underwent fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, utilizing indigenous yeasts to preserve the grape’s natural character. The wine was then aged for 16 months in French oak barriques and tonneaux. This aging process imparts subtle oak influences while maintaining the varietal purity and elegance of the Sangiovese grape. 

Tasting Notes

The 2018 Chianti Classico Riserva is a wonderfully polished and expressive wine. Dark cherry, spice, tobacco, cedar, and leather aromas lead to a medium-bodied palate with fine tannins and balanced acidity. The wine retains the classic Querciabella mid-weight style, offering a harmonious and persistent finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

The Riserva’s robust structure and complex flavor profile make it an excellent companion to hearty dishes such as braised cannellini beans with escarole and vegan sausages, Tuscan ribollita, and gnocchi with sage and cashew nut sauce. Its versatility also allows it to pair well with dishes featuring earthy flavors like mushrooms and root vegetables. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic profile and structure, serve the 2018 Riserva at a temperature of 14–18°C (57–65°F). Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving can help open up its complex bouquet and soften the tannins. Use large, tulip-shaped wine glasses to concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2018 Riserva has the potential to age gracefully for over two decades when stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with a consistent temperature. Over time, the wine will develop more nuanced tertiary aromas and flavors, offering an evolving and rewarding tasting experience for those who choose to cellar it.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Sangiovese: 100%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14% 

Scores

• Antonio Galloni (Vinous): 93/100 

• James Suckling: 95/100 

• Falstaff: 90/100