Barone Ricasoli Casalferro 2019

Region and Vineyards

The Casalferro is sourced from three vineyards in the Chianti region of Tuscany: Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino, and Vigna Sodacci. These vineyards are located between 400 and 500 meters above sea level, offering Merlot grapes the ideal climate and exposure. Vigna Casalferro and Vigna Sodacci have southern exposures, contributing to the ripeness and richness of the fruit, while Vigna Pecchierino faces northwest, which maintains balance and acidity. The soils vary from arenarie (sand and rock) to alberese (limestone), providing a mineral structure that complements the grape’s natural softness.

The vineyards are meticulously managed, with high planting densities of 5,500-6,600 vines per hectare, and use a spurred cordon training system. This combination of altitude, soil diversity, and careful vine management allows for a Merlot that is complex and reflective of its unique terroir.

Winemaking

The Merlot grapes for Casalferro are hand-harvested and undergo fermentation at a controlled temperature between 24°C and 27°C, ensuring a smooth extraction process. The wine is left in contact with the skins for 14-18 days, allowing for an optimal balance of tannins and color. The long maceration adds depth and concentration, while controlled temperatures preserve the grape’s fresh, aromatic qualities.

Aging takes place over 21 months in a mix of tonneaux and barriques, with 30% of the barrels being new oak, and the remainder of second and third passage. This approach integrates subtle oak influences without overwhelming the Merlot’s fruit character. The result is a wine with a layered structure, showcasing refined tannins, and a smooth, polished finish.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red, indicating concentration and richness.
• Aroma: Complex aromas of ripe plum, dark cherry, and blackberry, with subtle hints of spice, tobacco, and cedar from the oak.
• Palate: Full-bodied and balanced, with silky tannins and flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and elegant, with well-integrated oak.

Did You Know?

The Casalferro vineyard dates back centuries, yet since 1993 has been dedicated solely to Merlot, marking a commitment by Barone Ricasoli to explore the depth and elegance of single-varietal expressions in Tuscany.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina: Complements the wine’s bold structure and enhances its savory notes.
• Wild mushroom risotto: The earthy flavors of mushrooms align beautifully with the wine’s rich, dark fruit and mineral undertones.
• Aged Pecorino cheese: The cheese’s nutty, savory notes enhance the wine’s depth and smooth tannins.
• Lamb stew with rosemary: The wine’s complexity and subtle spice are an excellent match for the herbaceous flavors of lamb.

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.