'Tuscany's Star Performers: The best of the new Chianti Classico' - Decanter
Similar to the Castellare di Castellina, but a but leaner and a bit more elegant. Drink 2009-2020. 5 stars Decanter
The 2005 Chianti Classico Riserva reveals a profile of red berries, herbs, crushed flowers and spices. The wine possesses an attractive up-front personality and finessed tannins, but it does taper off a bit on the mid-palate. In this rain-plagued vintage Monsanto did not produce its Riserva Il Poggio, and the best fruit from that site was added to this Riserva bottling, which was aged in a variety of used French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2017. 90 points Antonio Galloni Wine Advocate # 177 Jun 2008
It’s another Mondo Imports offering from the more difficult 2005 vintage, but based on the quality here, surely the 2006 must be an absolute belter. One of the things I like best about a good Chianti is the way it smells - no disappointment here with pencil/mineral/earth, black cherries and a smoke and dried herbs character. In the mouth medium bodied with good strong fruit and interesting earth and licorice flavours - none of your simple fruitiness here. It has dry tannins and good extract that’s not overdone. A bit of a dip mid-palate but springs back to life on the finish. Toothsome and very satisfying - it’s exactly the sort of wine I like to drink. Drink : 2008 - 2015 Rated : 92 Points Gary Walsh, The Wine Front
Chianti Classico Riserva…Composed of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino, it is a pure representation of subtle earth, fruit and balance. Situated in the heart of Chianti Classico, Monsanto represents the truly classic Tuscan style.
Castello di Monsanto is one of Chianti Classico’s most historically important estates. Proprietor Fabrizio Bianchi was at the forefront of many innovations that later became standard practice. In the early 1960s Monsanto pioneered the concept of the single-vineyard wines, and its Il Poggio is credited as being the first such Chianti Classico. In the years that followed Bianchi removed the traditional white varietals from the Chianti blend, years before other producers followed suit. Today Monsanto makes wines in a slightly more updated style that remains very much connected to the past, and most importantly, to its unique terroir. Antonio Galloni The Wine Advocate
Chosen by Aldo Bianchi for its view of his hometown of Poggibonsi, the estate of Castello di Monsanto also features vineyards with surprisingly low altitudes and hotter climates than most of Chianti Classico as well as significant deposits of marine fossils, all very favorable conditions for viticulture. Aldo’s son Fabrizio recognized this boon and devoted his boundless energy to the estate, enthusiastically trying new ideas and tirelessly promoting the excellent wines he produces. Fabrizio’s most integral belief is in the character of the land, which he explains is destined to produce robust, structured wines with great aging potential. Now running the winery with the help of his daughter, Laura, and enologist Andrea Giovannini, he has developed and maintained a reputation as one of the most consistent and high-quality producers of Chianti Classico and an innovator who has introduced many developments that have become regular practice throughout the zone.
HISTORY
Fabrizio Bianchi — a successful Milanese textile manufacturer — purchased the Monsanto estate in 1961. Captivated by Tuscany’s beauty and convinced of the property’s winemaking potential, Bianchi undertook a complete restoration of the vineyards, winery and villa. Castello di Monsanto is one of the most respected estates in Tuscany and one of the top producers of Chianti Classico Riserva. Located midway between Florence & Siena, the 395-acre estate lies on the western edge of the Chianti Classico zone. The name "Monsanto" itself was taken from the name of the village where the cellars are located.
REGION VINEYARDS
200 acres all planted in the Barberino Val d’Elsa sub-region in the southern part of Chianti Classico. This is one of the best areas for Chianti, since the average vineyard elevation is 900 feet, giving a warmer microclimate than nearby areas. This is very important for the late ripening Sangiovese. Located at the top of the Elsa valley, the vineyards also have the advantage of the moderating maritime influence. The Sangiovese vineyards are planted on Galestro soil, which is a hard stratified clay or schist separated by large stones. Tuscany…For 300 years, the producers in Chianti have been crafting unparalleled old world wines based on Sangiovese. Authentic…Monsanto does not bend to modern trends of blending foreign grapes into its Sangiovese. They maintain the practices that represent the essence of Tuscany. Comfortable…Reflects the people, history, food culture, and warmth that emanate from Tuscany and is embodied in its wine.
