Barone Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico 2022

Region and Vineyards

Barone Ricasoli’s vineyards lie in the rolling hills of Chianti Classico, where centuries of winemaking history meet modern expertise. The estate’s vines thrive at altitudes between 280–480 meters above sea level, benefiting from cool nights and sunny days that enhance grape ripening and aromatic development.

The diversity of the vineyard's soils—sandstone, Galestro, Alberese, marine deposits, and fluvial terraces—contribute to the wine’s complexity. This terroir imparts structure, minerality, and balance, hallmarks of a fine Chianti Classico.

Winemaking

This vintage saw unique climatic challenges, including a late frost and a dry summer. Despite these, the grapes matured beautifully, yielding small, concentrated berries that were hand-harvested between September and October .

Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks, with precise temperature control to preserve freshness and vibrancy. A maceration period of 14–16 days extracted depth and structure. The wine aged for 9 months in second- and third-passage tonneaux, ensuring a well-integrated oak influence that complements, rather than dominates, the fruit.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright ruby red with garnet reflections.
• Aroma: Aromatic layers of ripe cherry, red plum, and a hint of violet, accented by notes of spice and earth.
• Palate: Medium-bodied with silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and flavors of raspberry, wild herbs, and a touch of tobacco, leading to a long, balanced finish.

Did you know?

Barone Ricasoli is credited with crafting the original recipe for Chianti in the 19th century, shaping the identity of one of Italy's most celebrated wine regions.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Tagliatelle al Ragù: The wine’s acidity and red fruit complement the rich, meaty flavors of the ragù while balancing its savory character.
• Osso Buco alla Milanese: The tannins cut through the richness of braised veal shanks, while the wine’s herbaceous undertones mirror the dish’s gremolata.
• Porcini Risotto: The earthy flavors of porcini mushrooms harmonize beautifully with the wine’s subtle notes of forest floor and spice.
• Aged Pecorino Toscano: The wine’s structure and fruit-forward profile are enhanced by the nutty, salty intensity of this iconic cheese.

History of Barone Ricasoli

The Ricasoli estate is deeply intertwined with the history of Tuscany and Italian viticulture. The first documented mention of the Ricasoli family dates back to 1141, when the Castello di Brolio came under their control. This medieval fortress, strategically located in the Chianti region, became a symbol of their influence and legacy.

By 1584, historical records specifically referenced the Ricasoli family's wine production. In the 17th century, the estate began exporting its wines to Amsterdam and England, underscoring its growing importance in the international wine trade.

The 19th century marked a defining era under Bettino Ricasoli, famously known as the "Iron Baron." A prominent political figure, Bettino served as Italy’s Prime Minister twice during the 1860s and played a vital role in shaping the newly unified nation. However, his most enduring legacy lies in his work as a winemaker. He crafted the original Chianti Classico formula, focusing on Sangiovese as the core varietal, believing it best reflected the terroir of the region. His pioneering approach elevated Chianti to international acclaim and established it as a benchmark for Italian winemaking.

Today, under the leadership of Francesco Ricasoli, a direct descendant of Bettino, the estate continues to innovate while honoring its historic roots. Francesco has spearheaded extensive research into the estate’s diverse soils and unique Sangiovese clones, revitalized the vineyards, and modernized winemaking practices, ensuring the enduring excellence of Barone Ricasoli wines.

Region and Vineyards

The Ricasoli estate spans an impressive 1,200 hectares, making it the largest estate in Chianti Classico, with 230 hectares dedicated to vineyards and 26 hectares to olive groves. Situated between Gaiole and Castelnuovo Berardenga, the estate benefits from diverse landscapes, soils, and microclimates, including:

• Macigno del Chianti (sandstone): Promotes minerality and finesse.
• Scaglia Toscana (Galestro): Adds structure and complexity.
• Monte Morello (Alberese): Enhances elegance and freshness.

The vineyards’ altitudes range from 400 to 490 meters above sea level, providing ideal conditions for producing balanced and aromatic wines.

Wine Range of Barone Ricasoli

Barone Ricasoli produces a wide spectrum of wines, with highlights including:

• Chianti Classico Gran Selezione: Iconic wines like Castello di Brolio and Colledilà, representing the pinnacle of Sangiovese expressions.
• Torricella Chardonnay: A distinctive Tuscan white, showcasing innovation in Chianti.
• Olive Oils: Premium extra virgin olive oils from estate groves.

Did you know?

The Castello di Brolio, a medieval fortress at the heart of the estate, has been the center of Ricasoli’s winemaking legacy. It also served as a battleground for conflicts between Florence and Siena, preserving centuries of history and character.