Chianti Rufina

In Medieval times, Selvapiana was one of the watch towers along the river Sieve built to protect the city of Florence on the North-East border. During the Renaissance, the building was enlarged and transformed into a villa suitable as a summer residence for noble Florentine families, and the bishops of Florence. In 1827, Selvapiana was acquired by Michele Giuntini, a successful banker and ancestor of Francesco Giuntini, the present owner and fifth generation to run the property from 1957 through to 1997. The vines are certified organic. Winemaker Federico Giuntini grew up at Selvapiana. His father was the estate manager from 1950 to 1990. He always wanted to work at the estate. Francesco Giuntini, owner of Selvapiana, never married, and always considered Federico and his sister like family. In 1994 Francesco legally adopted them, continuing the family tradition at the estate. The Erchi farm was purchased in 1998, in the municipality of Pontassieve, and was planted to sangiovese in 1999 with cuttings from their Bucerchiale vineyard. Fragrant cherries, dark raspberries, bergamot is laced with salinity and ferrous notes, and framed with long, tight tannins, housing this to a lingering bitter cocoa finish. Beautifully structured and graceful, drinking very smartly now and with time in your cellar ahead.

Perfumed and all about finesse, this focused red (the result of a long-term project) is the latest addition to the firm's stellar lineup. It opens with enticing aromas of fragrant purple flower, wild berry, truffle, baking spice and a whiff of crushed herb. Smooth and radiant, it delivers crushed cherry, raspberry compote, mint and star anise flavors set against taut polished tannins. Bright acidity lends balance and tension. Drink 2021–2036. Kerin O’Keefe