Cigliano di Sopra, Chianti Classico Riserva Vigneto Branca 2021

Cigliano di Sopra Chianti Classico Riserva Vigneto Branca 2021 is a refined, single-vineyard expression of Sangiovese that captures the soul of Tuscany in the glass. Drawn from some of the estate’s oldest vines and matured longer than the estate’s classic Chianti, it delivers both depth and detail without losing its vibrant elegance. This Riserva stands out as a quietly serious wine that reveals its layers with time, rewarding patience with a compelling, terroir-driven character.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the Vigneto Branca 2021 shows a luminous, medium ruby color with garnet reflections at the rim, hinting at its structure and youth. The aromatics are initially restrained, but with a little air the wine blossoms: bright red cherries and wild strawberries emerge first, followed by darker notes of dried herbs, forest floor, and subtle spice from its time in wood. Hints of violets, orange peel and faint tobacco complete a very classical Sangiovese profile. On the palate, this Chianti Classico Riserva is precise and focused, with a beautiful interplay between juicy red fruit, savory earth and fine-grained tannins. The extra year of aging brings more breadth and texture, giving the wine a firm yet polished structure that frames its core of cherry, sour plum and red currant. Fresh acidity keeps everything lifted and mouthwatering, while notes of dried Mediterranean herbs, cedar and a gentle, spicy warmth linger on the finish. Enjoyable now after a good decant, it has the balance and backbone to evolve gracefully for 8–12 years from the vintage.

Production
Vigneto Branca is a dedicated single vineyard within the rolling hills of Chianti Classico in Tuscany, where Sangiovese thrives on well-drained, stony soils and a classic combination of warm days and cooler nights. The fruit for this Riserva is sourced from some of the oldest vines on the estate and is carefully selected, often harvested by hand to ensure only the healthiest, most concentrated bunches reach the cellar. In the winery, the grapes are gently fermented to preserve purity of fruit and a clear sense of place, with attentive extraction to favor finesse over power. The wine is then aged in carefully chosen barrels for an extended period compared with the estate’s regular Chianti Classico, allowing it to gain additional depth, structure and complexity without overwhelming the varietal character of Sangiovese.

Food & Serving
This Chianti Classico Riserva is a natural partner for classic Tuscan fare such as bistecca alla fiorentina, grilled lamb chops, roasted game birds, or rich ragù over pappardelle. It also shines alongside aged Pecorino, mushroom dishes, and slow-cooked tomato-based stews, where its acidity and structure can cut through richness and elevate savory flavors. Serve at around 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight both its aromatic nuances and textural finesse. The wine benefits from 1–2 hours in a decanter when young, allowing the initially shy aromatics to open up and reveal the full spectrum of fruit, spice and earthy complexity.

Producer
Cigliano di Sopra is an estate rooted in the historic heartland of Chianti Classico, where Sangiovese has long been the defining voice of the landscape. Embracing a philosophy that emphasizes precision, authenticity and respect for the local terroir, the winery focuses on crafting wines that are transparent expressions of their vineyards rather than heavily styled cellar creations. Within the region, Cigliano di Sopra has gained recognition for its careful vineyard work, its sensitive use of oak, and its ability to produce wines that are at once traditional in character and finely tuned in texture. The Vigneto Branca Riserva sits among the estate’s flagship bottlings, serving as a particularly pure and evocative tribute to Sangiovese and the Chianti Classico appellation.

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