Chianti Classico DOCG 2016 Riserva by Querciabella

There is much to be said about Querciabella. We’ll be writing a profile on this iconic Tuscan estate soon, but in the meantime you can read about their ethos and the finely crafted wines they make on their website.

Riserva versions of Chianti Classico DOCG are more complex, structured and full-bodied than the standard DOCG. Ageing must be for a minimum 24 months, of which at least three in bottle.

Over the years, Querciabella have acquired key, high-altitude vineyard sites in different growing zones of the Chianti Classico region.  To the Querciabella Riserva, the altitude of the Greve vineyards bring lively, lifted red fruit; volume and freshness comes from the limestone-rich Gaiole holdings; with the stony Radda soils delivering density and concentration. After strict selection in the vineyards, the grapes undergo slow fermentation in small oak and cement vats.   Ageing takes place in French oak barrels fo 16-18 months.

2016 was an excellent vintage, with the fruit able to hang on the vine for an extended period before harvest.

Tasted by Cuculo in March 2021, the wine showed violet, musk and spice, with aromas of cooked fruit which we recommend unpacking via a decanter.  The palate leads with a glorious, fresh acidity and a steeliness which, together, elegantly carry the dense aromas. These qualities cleary indicate the (easy) 10-20 years of in-bottle development to which the winemaker attests.

As Daniele Cernilli wrote in DoctorWine in 2016, this is “the perfect Chianti Classico”.

Brilliant ruby-red. Aromas of violet, ripe cherries, earth, oak and a touch of incense. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and powerful and enriched with rosemary notes.

Well-integrated tannins, great texture and excellent freshness. Very long finish with a hint of iron.

– SIMONA GERI · The Winesetter