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Castello Di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva Il Poggio 2018 750ml
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SKU 933217
Out of stock
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A muscular red, with iron, almond, tar and underbrush aromas that provide a savory element to the core of cherry and blackberry fruit. Dense, dusty tannins and a vein of mineral lend austerity as this announces “hands off” on the tightly wound finish. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Best from 2026 through 2045. 833 cases made, 400 cases imported.
The name of this grape, meaning 'blood of Jove' conjures up evocative images of long dead civilizations, and gives the Sangiovese varietal a sense of the holy, the sacred, the special. Indeed, this particular type of Italian grape has been cultivated and processed for thousands of years, and is said to be the original favorite grape varietal of the Romans, and the Etruscans before them. Throughout history, vintners have continued to plant this varietal, and they continue to produce wonderful wines to this day. The long bunches of very dark, round fruit are treasured by fine wineries in Italy and a few other places around the world, and when young, these grapes are lively – full of strawberry flavors and a little spiciness. However, it is when they are aged in oak that they take on some truly special flavors and aromas, as seen in some of the finest wines of the Old World.
Country
Italy
There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.
Region
Tuscany
The central Italian region of Tuscany is widely understood to be one of the world's most famous and highly regarded wine regions. The beautiful rolling hillsides and medieval towns and castles which are a key feature of the area are also home to many of Europe's finest wineries, and extremely high quality vineyards growing the distinctive Sangiovese and Vernaccia grape varietals which are the flavorful backbone of Tuscany's wonderful red and white wines. For almost three thousand years, this region has been recognized as an ideal home for wine production on a large scale, and the ancient Etruscans, Greeks and Romans all noticed that fine grape varietals flourished on the unique soils and under the hot sunshine which typifies the area. Today, Tuscany is home to a wide range of wines, from the traditional to the complex, but all dedicated to excellent flavors and aromas, and maintaining the region's international reputation.
Appellation
Chianti Classico
Chianti Classico stands out for its rich history, exceptional terroir, and distinctive winemaking traditions. Centered around the Sangiovese grape, these wines are renowned for their vibrant acidity, lively cherry and floral notes, and a signature earthy character. What sets it apart is the stringent production regulations, requiring a minimum of 80% Sangiovese, ensuring a regional identity. The iconic black rooster on the label symbolizes the commitment to quality, distinguishing Chianti Classico from other Chianti subzones.
The wines undergo a minimum aging period of 12 months, with some oak aging, resulting in a harmonious balance between fruit expression and nuanced complexity. This meticulous approach highlights the region’s dedication to preserving authenticity and showcasing the unique characteristics of its terroir.
WS96pts
Wine Spectator
A muscular red, with iron, almond, tar and underbrush aromas that provide a savory element to the core of cherry and blackberry fruit. Dense, dusty tannins and a vein of mineral lend austerity as this announces "hands off" on the tightly wound finish. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Best from 2026 through 2045. 833 cases made, 400 cases imported. (Collectible)
JS96pts
James Suckling
So much lavender and sage with lemon blossom and cherry aromas. Medium-bodied with firm and fine tannins that give a crunchiness instead of a chewiness. Needs time to soften but already impressive and precise. A classicism that is hard to find in Italy. Drink after 2026.
JD95pts
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Il Poggio is 95% Sangiovese and the rest Colorino and Canaiolo. A subtle and attractive perfume floats from the glass with candied rose petal, wild raspberry, and sweet herbs. The palate is surprisingly more expressive and explosive, offering notes of ripe cherry, wild herbs, orange peel, and dusty earth. It has a warming feel and still has structure, with good depth and concentration, ripe and present tannins, and wonderful energy. This is another one to cellar and drink 2025-2040.
WA94pts
Wine Advocate
The Castello di Monsanto 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Il Poggio is a blend of 95% Sangiovese with smaller parts Canaiolo and Colorino aged in oak for 18 months. The Vigna Il Poggio measures 5.2 hectares and sees a mix of local soils, including pietraforte (a type of hardened sandstone that tends to make structural wines of depth). The wine opens to dark fruit aromas, light spice, grilled herb and integrated tannins, and it closes with tart fruit and nice freshness. This is an 18,000-bottle release.
VM94pts
Vinous Media
The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna il Poggio is a medium-bodied wine that is going to need a few years for the tannins to soften. In this tasting, the 2018 comes across as a Poggio with compelling aromatic presence but perhaps a bit less textural breadth than the very best years. Dried herbs, cedar, tobacco and scorched earth linger on the savory finish. Another few years in bottle should do the trick. The understated side of Il Poggio comes through beautifully.
WE93pts
Wine Enthusiast
The sanguine, savory nose of cured meat, balsamic, pepper and sage has a kick of spicy tomato. Juicy, meaty and herbal notes continue on the palate, while cherries and fresh tomatoes provide balance. Tannins and acidity provide masterful framing.
Winery Notes
Depending on the vintage, this wine may be labelled as 'Riserva' or 'Gran Selezione'.
The company’s most iconic bottle, Il Poggio, is the first Chianti Classico to feature the name of the specific vineyard and saw the disappearance of white grapes from the recipe in 1968.
