Cantine DaVinci Vergine Delle Rocce Chianti Riserva 2021

Cantine Leonardo da Vinci is a historic cooperative founded in 1961 by approximately 30 local grape-growers in the hills around Vinci—just a few kilometres from Leonardo’s birthplace  . The winery honors the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci through its “I Capolavori” collection—wines designed to reflect both Italian artistry and terroir. The “Vergine delle Rocce” label is directly inspired by his famous painting and is part of this prestigious series  . The wine is crafted from vineyards in Vinci, Cerreto Guidi, and nearby hills in Tuscany  .

Grape Composition & Winemaking

• Blend: 85% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot, and 5% other red grapes  .

• Vinification: Grapes undergo soft crushing and ferment in stainless-steel vats at ~28 °C for around 10 days, with frequent pump-overs to extract polyphenols, followed by malolactic fermentation in steel  .

• Aging: This Riserva matures further, often in a combination of French and American oak barrels for an extended period (commonly around 10 months)  .

Tasting Notes

Appearance: The wine displays a clear purple-red hue—a classic hallmark of a youthful yet promising Chianti Riserva  .

Aroma (Nose): Aromatic layers of fresh red fruits—like cherry and red berries—are enlivened by a subtle spiciness, notably black pepper, offering both intensity and elegance  .

Palate: On tasting, the wine is balanced, fragrant, and full-bodied, with soft, refined tannins providing structure and a long, persistent finish that echoes its fruity and spicy aromatic profile  .

Overall Impression: A poised expression of Chianti DOCG Riserva—combining the fresh vibrancy of Sangiovese with added depth and roundness from Merlot and other red varieties. It delivers a harmonious blend of fruit, spice, and elegant tannic structure.

Pairing & Serving Suggestions

• Serve at: 16–18 °C to fully appreciate its aromatics and structure  .

• Ideal Pairings: Excellent with Tuscan cuisine such as red meats, roasted game, hearty ragù, aged cheeses, and traditional fare like ribollita or cured salumi  .

Cellaring Potential

This Riserva style offers good aging prospects. Expect continued evolution and refinement over 5 to 10 years, potentially longer under proper conditions  .

Summary Tasting Note

The Da Vinci i Capolavori “Vergine delle Rocce” Chianti DOCG Riserva 2021 presents a compelling Tuscan narrative: a crystalline purple-red wine, inviting with aromas of cherry, red berries, and black pepper. The palate is generous yet balanced, with soft tannins and a long, persistent fruit-spiced finish. Crafted by Cantine Leonardo da Vinci—a cooperative deeply rooted in Vinci—this wine harmoniously blends tradition with artistry, offering both immediate enjoyment and promising aging potential.