Istine Chianti Classico '22

Angela Fronti is improving on the traditions that have for generations defined the wines of Chianti. Similar to her wines, she is high energy, effusively charming and intense, but tempered by elegance and humility. For decades, Angela’s family’s specialization has been in the development and management of vineyards for famous Tuscan wineries. It was only a matter of time before someone in the Fronti family would aspire to produce wine from their estate vineyards. In 2009, Angela produced around 250 cases of Istine Chianti Classico.

Istine consists of 20 hectares, comprising high-altitude, small vineyards in the Chianti Classico area, mostly in Radda with some in Gaiole: Istine Vineyard (between Radda and Castellina), Casanova Vineyard (near Radda) and Cavarchione Vineyard (near Gaiole). The high altitude and predominantly rocky soils ensure freshness, elegance, and good acidity even in warm vintages. The vineyards consist of indigenous varieties, mainly Sangiovese. Conventionally farmed before 2009, Angela’s first move has been to convert the viticulture to organic methods. This parallels her non-interventionist style in the cellar. The estate became certified organic in 2016.
 
The grapes for Istine’s Chianti Classico are sourced from estate vineyards: primarily Istine, Casanova, and Cavarchione, along with Tibuca and Le Noci. The vineyards are located on different hillsides in Radda and Gaiole in Chianti, and the grapes are harvested by hand.cFermentation lasts for about two weeks in concrete and stainless steel. The wine spends 12 months in Slavonian oak casks and barrels of varying sizes and is partially aged in concrete tanks.
 
On the nose, the wine shows notes of bright red cherry, red plum, dried savory green herbs, and tobacco leaf, with a hint of dried tomato and cranberry balsamic. On the palate, the wine is medium bodied, with elevated acidity and fine-grained tannins. Perfect with tomato-based dishes or your favorite pizza.