Castiglion del Bosco Chardonnay

Tuscany, Italy

Vintage:2021 (Current)

2020 (Past) |

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Castiglion del Bosco Chardonnay 2021
  • WE 92

Reviews

Wine Enthusiast 92 Points September 1, 2024, Danielle Callegari

The nose is warm yet refreshing, like a summer morning that's not too hot yet, with aromas of lemon curd, orange, grass and hazelnuts, along with just a touch of biting pineapple. The nuttiness is more prominent on the palate, but more citrus and rivers of acid maintain a fresh, cooling feeling.

Overview

Castiglion del Bosco is one of the most prominent producers in Montalcino, both for the history of the estate and for its size, with 5,000 acres unchanged in the last 400 years. In 1967, when the Consorzio del Brunello di Montalcino was born, Castiglion del Bosco was one of its 25 founding members. This extraordinary property whose origin dates back to the 12th century was restored to its original glory starting in 2003. 

Winemaking

Quality-selected grapes that come from a small local provider are harvested by hand and are then transported to the winery in 20kg crates. The clusters travel to sorting tables where trained eyes make a further selection of the finest fruit. The grapes are pressed and rest at a temperature of 41F° for 48 hours before fermentation. Fermentation starts with natural yeasts and takes place for 18 days in stainless steel tanks at 78°F. At the end of the fermentation process, the wine rests several months in stainless steel tanks. The final blend is then assembled and bottled. The entire vinification process is carried out in the cellar, completely gravity-fed.

Tasting Notes

The aromatic details of this wine say a lot about the 2021 vintage climate. The wine is lemon with greenish reflections, the nose expresses beautiful floral notes enhanced with constant references of citrus fruit, such as grapefruit and orange peel. The good acidity, combined with a light sapidity and a strong minerality, embody the possibility of evolution of this wine. It is characterized by a marked freshness and great fragrance. The mouth is tense and vibrant, supported by a pleasant citric acidity.

Harvest Notes

2021 was a year that saw very particular weather patterns, which ultimately encouraged the growth of high-quality grapes that will eventually be reflected in the wine. Spring and summer temperatures remained below average, allowing the gradual development of complex aromas, resulting in a broad and delicate bouquet. In order to preserve this aromatic complexity during the vinification process, we lowered fermentation temperatures and minimised contact with oxygen. The summer drought was well compensated by abundant rainfall in May, which allowed the plants to maintain a good state of hydration, resulting in homogeneous veraison and ripening. The water balance was maintained by deep root systems.

Food Pairing

Excellent with pasta dishes with white sauces, fish dishes and soft cheeses.

Technical Information

Varietals: 100% Chardonnay

Wine Alcohol: 12.5%

Cases Produced: 15,000 bottles

Suggested Retail Price: $26.99