Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Gaiole Colledilà Gran Selezione
Barone Ricasoli · Gaiole in Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
At a glance
- Producer
- Barone Ricasoli
- Region
- Gaiole in Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
- Grape variety
- Sangiovese
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $90-$130 USD
Tasting profile
Bright cherry and wild berry, violet, crushed stone, savory herbs, with evident oak spice; youthful with pronounced structure and freshness.
Evolution: Will evolve to reveal deeper tertiary notes of leather, truffle, dried herbs, tea leaf, and subtle balsamic nuances, enriching mid-palate depth.
At peak: Full aromatic complexity, seamlessly integrated tannins, vibrant red fruit, earth, and minerality harmonized; elegant, with a very long finish.
Structure
- Acidity
- Lively and precise, providing drive and freshness for long-term aging
- Tannins
- Firm, refined, and persistent tannins, typical of Sangiovese from high-altitude Chianti Classico sites
- Alcohol
- Approx. 14-14.5% ABV; balanced for the style and region
- Aging potential
- High for single vineyard Gran Selezione; expected to develop complexity for 15+ years
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2028 to 2035
- Optimal window
- 2026 to 2038
- Current status
- Structured and vibrant, with primary fruit and pronounced tannins; approachable with decanting
- Current condition
- Youthful, fresh, tightly knit tannins, exhibiting energy and definition typical of top-tier Gran Selezione
The 2021 vintage, marked by optimal conditions in Chianti Classico, provides exceptional balance and energy for long-term development. Gran Selezione status and Colledilà's single-vineyard pedigree indicate both power and refinement, meaning the wine will hit peak expression approximately 7-15 years post-vintage, but remains enjoyable beyond with graceful tertiary evolution.
Food pairing
Traditional Tuscan fare such as bistecca alla fiorentina, braised rabbit, wild boar ragù, truffle risotto, hard aged cheeses (Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano), and hearty mushroom dishes.
Serving
- Decant
- Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has firm tannins and is medium-bodied, which can benefit from aeration to soften the tannins and enhance the aromatic profile.
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 8/10
Barone Ricasoli implements vineyard biodiversity restoration, reduced chemical use, solar energy for winery operations, water recycling in cellar, lightweight glass bottles, and cork from sustainable sources.
Barone Ricasoli is a leader in Chianti Classico for sustainability, with a dedicated effort towards organic conversion (though not fully certified yet), robust biodiversity programs, energy and water conservation, and certified under major Italian sustainability initiatives. The carbon footprint is improved by local practices, though exporting to distant markets has inherent impact. Overall, Colledilà demonstrates above-average sustainability among premium Italian wines and is transparent about their ongoing improvements.