Felsina Chianti Colli Senesi Farnetella 2016

Drink now through to 2024. No need to decant before serving.

The Felsina estate is one of the leading producers of Chianti Classico thanks to the foresight of former schoolteacher Giuseppe Mazzocolin who took over the running of the property from his father-in-law in the 1980s. Giuseppe enlisted the help of legendary enologist Franco Bernabei and replanted much of the estate’s 75 hectares of vines as well as modernising the winemaking facilities.

In 1981 the family purchased the Castello di Farnetella estate in the appellation of Chianti Colli Senesi which is set on a hill with a maximum altitude of 560 metres. The estate is well-suited to Sangiovese although there are also smaller plots of Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Sangiovese grapes used for the Farnetella are all harvested by hand and chosen for their soft and easy-going flavour profile. A small amount of Merlot is also added to contribute a rich fruit character and smoothness to the finished wine. Following the fermentation the wine is aged in oak casks for up to 12 months which adds sweet baking spice aromas to the attractive cherry and dried violets on the nose. The first sip reveals a full body, well-rounded texture and ripe red berry flavours.