At a glance

Producer

Castello di Querceto

Region

Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese blend (predominantly Sangiovese, typically 90-95% with small portions of Canaiolo, Colorino or other local varieties as permitted by DOCG regulations)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-30 USD (750ml, standard retail pricing for current vintage; Wine-Searcher avg. $23 as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Aromas of ripe cherry, violet, raspberry, wild herbs, with hints of earth and subtle spice. Palate is juicy, brisk and lively, with crunchy Sangiovese fruit, savory undertones, fresh acidity, and youthful tannic grip.

Evolution: Within 2-4 years: flavors deepen toward sour cherry, dried herbs, leather, and subtle balsamic notes. Tannins round out and mouthfeel softens. Some earthy complexity emerges.

At peak: At peak (2025-2028): Red and black cherry, dried violet, forest floor, balanced acidity, fully integrated tannins, savory and slightly spicy finish.

Structure

Acidity

High (signature of Sangiovese and the Classico terroir), providing brightness and long-term freshness.

Tannins

Medium to medium-high, fine but youthful. Will soften slightly and integrate with short aging.

Alcohol

Typical range 13.5%–14%. Balanced in 2021 vintage, no overripe heat.

Aging potential

6-8 years from vintage (up to 2030), best drunk young to mid-term; not aimed at extended aging.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2028

Optimal window

2024 to 2030

Current status

Enjoyable now with primary fruit and youthful energy, but will benefit from short-term aging.

Current condition

Vibrant, fresh with lively fruit, structured tannins and brisk acidity. Ready but primary.

This Chianti Classico is built for moderate aging, with robust Sangiovese acidity and fresh fruit in a structured but approachable style. Peak window (2025-2028) reflects the period when tannins integrate, and complexity from fruit and gentle tertiary notes emerge, while freshness is preserved. After peak (post-2030), diminishing primary fruit and possible drying tannins may reduce appeal.

Food pairing

Classic with Tuscan cuisine: bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), grilled lamb chops, wild boar ragù, pasta with tomato-based sauces, roast chicken with herbs, aged Pecorino, mushroom risotto, and cured meats like finocchiona salami. As wine evolves, pair with richer, earthier dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Light aeration smooths out youthful tannins and helps aromas open, especially in the first 3-5 years after vintage.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Cover cropping, integrated pest management, low-intervention farming, respect for traditional practices.

Castello di Querceto embraces many sustainable practices common in Chianti Classico, including careful vineyard management and low-impact interventions, though the estate is not organically certified.