Felsina Berardenga Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2020

Region and Vineyards

Rancia Riserva is produced from 100% Sangiovese, sourced exclusively from the Rancia vineyard located in Castelnuovo Berardenga within the Chianti Classico area. This vineyard takes its name from the historic Rancia farmhouse, which was once a Benedictine monastery, connecting the wine to the ancient heritage of the region. Situated at elevations between 400 and 420 meters with a southwest-facing exposure, the vineyard benefits from ideal sunlight and well-ventilated slopes that promote optimal ripening conditions.

The soils in Rancia are rich in limestone-derived alberese and galestro marl, typical of Castelnuovo Berardenga, which contributes to the wine’s intense minerality and structure. The vines are densely planted, with approximately 5,400 vines per hectare, and the vineyard’s most recent plantings use genetic material from massal selections of the older Rancia vines, maintaining the vineyard’s distinctive character.

Winemaking

Rancia Riserva is meticulously crafted to preserve the essence of the Rancia terroir. The hand-harvested Sangiovese clusters are carefully selected, de-stemmed, and gently pressed. The must undergoes fermentation and maceration in stainless steel tanks for 16 to 20 days at controlled temperatures of 28-30°C, with regular punchdowns and daily pump-overs to achieve balanced extraction.

In March or April, the wine is transferred to new French oak barrels for a maturation period of 18 to 20 months. This oak aging adds complexity, structure, and softens the tannins, allowing the wine to develop its signature depth. After barrel aging, the wine is blended, bottled, and further aged in the bottle for 6 to 8 months, enhancing its integration and refinement.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red with an intense tone.
• Aroma: A complex and spicy bouquet with floral notes and hints of wild red and black berries, mineral nuances, and subtle toasted undertones.
• Palate: Spicy elements continue on the palate, with youthful, dense, yet supple tannins. The finish is vigorous, taut, and flavor-rich, supported by lively acidity, indicating strong aging potential.

Did you know?

Rancia Riserva was first produced in 1983 and has since become one of Fèlsina’s most iconic expressions of Sangiovese. Its name and heritage connect to the ancient Rancia farmhouse, a symbol of the estate’s respect for tradition and history, grounding this wine deeply in the legacy of Chianti Classico.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Wild boar pappardelle: The earthy flavors of wild boar align beautifully with the Rancia’s structure and complex spice profile.
• Porcini mushroom risotto: The wine’s minerality and depth enhance the umami-rich flavors of porcini mushrooms, making for a harmonious pairing.
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano: The wine’s robust tannins and acidity balance the intense, nutty character of this iconic Italian cheese.
• Tuscan-style roasted lamb with rosemary and garlic: The savory, herbal flavors in the lamb complement the wine’s spice and berry notes.

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.