Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico 2021

Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico 2021

 

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Felsina Berardenga
Chianti Classico 2021
  • Vintage : 2021
  • Country : Italy
  • Region : Tuscany (Chianti Classico)
  • Subregion :
  • Type : Red
  • Style : Deep Full Bodied
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 14°
  • Grappes : 100% Sangiovese

This wine is fruit-driven and structured, with refined tannins and a spicy complexity that embodies the Fèlsina estate’s renowned quality.

Experts Score Vintage
JS James Suckling 93 2021
WS Wine Spectator 91 2021
RP Robert Parker 91 2021
JD Jeb Dunnuck 91 2020
DCT Decanter 90 2020
WE Wine Enthusiast 92 2018
W&S Wines & Spirits 92 2016
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The Berardenga Chianti Classico is made from 100% Sangiovese grown on various estate parcels across Fèlsina’s vineyards in Castelnuovo Berardenga, located in the southeastern Chianti Classico region. This area sits at the southern edge of Chianti Classico, near Siena, with a landscape defined by southwestern exposure and well-ventilated slopes. The vineyards span altitudes between 320 and 420 meters, providing an ideal climate for slow, even ripening of Sangiovese grapes.

Geologically, the terrain varies: higher altitudes have rocky quartz and calcareous alberese soils mixed with alluvial pebbles, while lower areas closer to the Colli Senesi feature sandstone and loam. These soil differences enhance the wine’s complexity, bringing together minerality, structure, and balance in each vintage. Some grapes are sourced from Pagliarese, a historic 25-hectare site marking the northwestern boundary of Fèlsina’s Chianti Classico area.

Winemaking

The 2021 Berardenga Chianti Classico is crafted with attention to detail to preserve the authentic expression of Sangiovese. After a staggered harvest throughout the first three weeks of October, due to varying vineyard altitudes, the grapes are selected, destemmed, and gently pressed. Fermentation and maceration take place in stainless steel for 12-15 days at controlled temperatures of 28°C to 30°C, with regular punchdowns and pump-overs to enhance extraction and balance.

After fermentation, the wine matures in medium-sized Slavonian oak barrels and partially in second- and third-use oak barrels for 12 months. This aging period enriches the wine’s structure and complexity without overpowering the fruit. Finally, the wine is blended, bottled, and aged in the bottle for an additional minimum of 3 months before release.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Intense ruby red.
  • Aroma: Elegant and fruity, with prominent notes of wild berries and a subtle array of spices that add complexity.
  • Palate: Fresh and fruit-forward with well-structured tannins. The finish is long and lingering, reflecting the minerality and finesse of the terroir.

Did you know?

The Berardenga Chianti Classico has been a cornerstone of Fèlsina’s production since its first vintage in 1967. Made exclusively from Sangiovese, this wine represents Fèlsina’s commitment to showcasing the unique qualities of Castelnuovo Berardenga and the diversity of Chianti Classico soils.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Pasta with wild boar ragù: The earthy and spicy notes of the Chianti Classico pair perfectly with the savory richness of wild boar.
  • Aged pecorino cheese: The wine’s acidity and structured tannins balance the robust flavors of aged pecorino.
  • Bistecca alla Fiorentina: The fruit-forward profile and tannins of the wine complement the juicy, grilled flavors of this classic Tuscan steak.
  • Porcini mushroom risotto: The minerality of the wine enhances the earthy tones of porcini mushrooms, creating a harmonious pairing.

History of Fèlsina Estate

Fèlsina’s roots trace back to the ancient Etruscans, who recognized the land’s agricultural potential and introduced grapevines and olive trees to the region. Nestled in Castelnuovo Berardenga, Fèlsina served as a vital stop along the Via Francigena, offering hospitality to travelers and pilgrims during the Middle Ages.

By 1966, Domenico Poggiali acquired the estate, immediately realizing the potential of its rich soils and ideal location. Together with his son Giuseppe, he expanded and modernized the vineyards, growing Fèlsina into a prestigious wine estate while preserving its local traditions and heritage.

In the late 1970s, Domenico’s son-in-law Giuseppe Mazzocolin joined the business, bringing his humanistic perspective and dedication to Tuscan culture. His collaboration with renowned oenologist Franco Bernabei launched a transformative period for Fèlsina, marked by iconic wines like Fontalloro and Rancia. This era also saw deep investment in Sangiovese, establishing Fèlsina’s reputation for quality and authenticity.

Region and Vineyards

Fèlsina is located at the southeastern edge of the Chianti Classico zone, near the Crete Senesi. Its vineyards span approximately 90 hectares out of a total 500-hectare estate, set between 350 and 420 meters above sea level. This location, where rocky-calcareous soils meet clay and mineral-rich sediment, is unique, providing varied microclimates and soil compositions that bring complexity and distinctiveness to the wines. The vineyards at Poggio a Rancia, Ruzzatoio, Terrarossa, and Santa Maria represent Fèlsina’s signature terroirs, each contributing its unique characteristics to the Sangiovese grape.

Fèlsina has pioneered massal selection in Chianti since 1983, preserving genetic diversity within Sangiovese, which is vital to the estate’s identity and quality. The estate also conducts ongoing research on soil and climate to ensure sustainable and authentic winemaking.

Wine Range

Fèlsina produces a diverse range of wines, with Sangiovese as its flagship grape. Key wines include:

  • Fontalloro: A 100% Sangiovese blend sourced from vineyards straddling Chianti Classico and Chianti Colli Senesi, capturing Fèlsina’s commitment to terroir and variety.
  • Rancia Chianti Classico Riserva: Made from the Rancia vineyard, this single-vineyard Sangiovese exemplifies Chianti’s potential with its structure and aging capability.
  • Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Riserva: These wines represent the heart of Fèlsina, with Sangiovese from various parcels showcasing depth, finesse, and typicity.
  • Maestro Raro: A unique expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, blending tradition with experimentation, reflecting Fèlsina’s adaptability and pursuit of excellence.
  • Vin Santo del Chianti Classico: Crafted from partially dried Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Sangiovese grapes, this dessert wine embodies the estate’s respect for Tuscan tradition.

Did you know?

Fèlsina’s dedication to quality extends beyond wine to olive oil production. The estate has preserved ancient olive varieties and developed unique growing areas to produce single-grove oils, including cultivars such as Leccino, Moraiolo, and Pendolino. This commitment to terroir mirrors Fèlsina’s philosophy in winemaking, highlighting its role as a comprehensive steward of Tuscan agriculture.

James Suckling (JS) : 93 Points (2021)
A firm and silky red with cherry, dried flower and orange peel aromas and flavors. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins and a fresh and focused finish. Needs a little time to soften but I already enjoy the energy here. Drink or hold.

Wine Spectator (WS) : 91 Points (2021)
This has a saline undercurrent to the cherry, cinnamon, rose hip, earth and Tuscan scrub flavors, all backed by a solid base of tannins and vibrant acidity. Long, energetic finish. Best from 2024 through 2030.

Robert Parker (RP) : 91 Points (2021)
The Fèlsina 2021 Chianti Classico Berardenga has a spicy or crunchy side that I often find with Sangiovese. There is a lot of fruit brightness here with cassis, red cherry, mineral, dried tobacco and grilled rosemary. This is an easy-drinking Tuscan red with the natural acidity and brightness to pair with a classic lasagna or eggplant parmigiana.

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) : 91 Points (2020)
A pure and open wine out of the gate, the 2020 Chianti Classico Berardenga is fresh with aromas of pine sap, anise, and cherry lozenge. Medium bodied with fine tannin and a modest but refreshing finish, this is a fantastic entry point for the Felsina range, for casual drinking with braised meats or Bolognese.

Decanter (DCT) : 90 Points (2020)
In the commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga, Fèlsina’s expansive vineyards are at the luminous southeastern tip of Chianti Classico. The Berardenga label represents a plentiful annual production of 250,000 bottles. On first impression, the 2020 is overtly ripe, yet with time prune cake and vanilla notes subside, allowing wild herb and savoury nuances to step in. The chewy tannins are long and supple, with ample fruit density to balance.

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 92 Points (2018)
New leather, camphor and blue flower are some of the aromas you'll find on this bright, fragrant red. On the medium-bodied palate, vibrant acidity and taut tannins surround cassis, Marasca cherry and tobacco notes. Drink 2022–2028.

Wines & Spirits (W&S) : 92 Points (2016)
The temperate 2016 growing season yielded a beautifully perfumed and poised Chianti Classico at Fèlsina. The aromas and flavors are pure Tuscany, with scents of lavender and dried thyme that lead into flavors of ripe black cherry and even savory tomato skin. Notes of pink peppercorns and leafy tobacco emerge with air, adding layers to the fleshy fruit.

Felsina Berardenga Fontalloro 2020
Felsina Berardenga Fontalloro 2020
Felsina Berardenga
Fontalloro 2020
WS
95
RP
96
VN
94
Fontalloro is a quintessential Sangiovese from Fèlsina, embodying the strength, elegance, and depth of Tuscany’s terroir.
67,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2020
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2020
Felsina Berardenga
Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2020
RP
95
JS
95
JD
94
Rancia Riserva from Fèlsina is an exceptional single-vineyard Chianti Classico that captures the elegance, intensity, and complexity of Sangiovese in the Chianti region.
57,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia 2019
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia 2019
Felsina Berardenga
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia 2019
WS
96
RP
95
JR
90
Colonia Gran Selezione is a limited-edition Chianti Classico from Fèlsina, crafted for true Sangiovese connoisseurs with intensity, elegance, and depth.
115,90 €
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Felsina Berardenga Fontalloro 2018
Felsina Berardenga Fontalloro 2018
Felsina Berardenga
Fontalloro 2018
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Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2015
Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2015
Felsina Berardenga
Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2015
58,00 €
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Wine regions guide
19,90 €
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