Casale dello Sparviero is a Tuscan company, a family business whose consultant winemaker is the well-known mr. Bernabei, in the heart of the Chianti Classico, specifically Castellina in Chianti, recognizable by the legendary ‘black rooster’, symbol of the relative and local Consorzio, on the label. From the first harvest in 1997, they are now at 88 Ha (218 acres) for a total of about 250,000 bottles a year with the first organic harvest in 2019: a path that will lead to the complete organic certification of Casale dello Sparviero wines in 2022. And all without missing a very typical and fascinating wine tourism offer.
I have recently had the pleasure to taste 3 of their most significant labels, all linked by a clear thread: austerity and territory without compromise.
- CHIANTI CLASSICO DOCG 2019
95% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo; 12 days of maceration in concrete vessel; 12 months in 50 Hl wooden barrels; 13.5%.
Bright ruby red. Nose of good intensity and legibility with notes of small red fruits, chocolate and a meaty touch on a background of wet tobacco leaf, then violet and rosemary. On the palate it is coherent with a return of ripe red fruit; easy to drink, bitter almond on the finish.
- CHIANTI CLASSICO DOCG RESERVE 2018 “CASALE DELLO SPARVIERO”
100% Sangiovese from Castellina in Chianti vineyards of 18 years old on average; 15 days of maceration in concrete vessel; 18 months in French oak barrique.
Medium Ruby. The nose is still “closed” waiting for the right ripening times. The fruit is, in any case, more precise than the previous one: blueberry, candy, sour cherry, coffee powder, cinnamon on a balsamic background. Good impact on the palate but still reluctant given the age. I would like to say: shady but composed and austere; great potential for ageing.
- CHIANTI CLASSICO DOCG GRAND SELECTION 2018 “PARONZA”
100% Sangiovese from selected grapes; 15 days of maceration in cement vessels plus 5 days post-fermentation; 18 months in French oak barrique and 6 months in 50 Hl barrels, at least 1 year in bottle.
Nearly deep ruby. Definitely intense and complex thanks to a deep bouquet defined by ripe red cherry, red orange, black pepper and cocoa; then leather, forest floor and hints of caramel and eucalyptus. Imposing structure also outlined by ripe tannins, long finish. Intact and welcoming with a perfect balance between the tannins, the ripe red fruity character and the refreshing acidity; ensured potential for ageing.
