Felsina : Berardenga Riserva 2017

A Sangiovese from Tuscany with a fruity and spicy aromatic expression

The estate

Domenico Poggiali acquired Fattoria Fèlsina in 1966, during a period of time when Tuscany was experiencing a real viticultural revolution with Super Tuscans. Located to the southeast of the historic area of Chianti Classico and Crete Senesi in the Province of Siena, the Fèlsina estate covers nearly 600 hectares, 95 of which are planted with vines which bring together all of the greatest terroirs that make up Tuscany’s charm and reputation. Fattoria Fèlsina’s philosophy is based on simple values: to reveal the expression of the Tuscan terroir and grape varieties in Italian wines which embody history and tradition.

The vineyard

The estate’s vineyards are located in Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the southeastern section of the Chianti Classico appellation and towards north-east Siena. The vineyards are almost all south-west facing and spread over slopes exposed to the wind at an altitude which varies between 320 to 420 metres above sea level. The soil is predominantly made up of rocky quartz in the more elevated parts in the vineyards. Limestone mixed with alluvium, sandstone and silt, as well as strata of pebbles, make up the vineyards that lie on the edge of the Colli Senesi hills, towards the Crete Senesi. Berardenga Riserva 2017 is made from a selection of the grapes from the Chianti Classico vineyards, towards the south of the appellation.

The wine

Berardenga Riserva is a cru which is only produced during the best vintages to celebrate the harmony of Sangiovese coming from various vineyards.

Winemaking and ageing

After the harvests, which took place during the first three weeks in October, the berries are taken to the cellar to begin the vinification process. The grapes are first destemmed and pressed. Those selected for their quality are subsequently fermented and macerated in stainless steel tanks for 14 to 16 days at between 28 and 30°C. Punch-downs and pump-overs are carried out daily. The wine ferments in Slavic and French oak barrels of two or three previous wines, starting around March and April and lasting for 12 to 16 months. To finish, the final blend is produced and the wine ages in bottle for three to six months.

Blend

The Berardenga Riserva by Fèlsina is a 100% Sangiovese wine.

Tasting

Colour

Berardenga Riserva 2017 presents a very intense ruby red colour.

Nose

The aromatic bouquet reveals a spicy expression, sustained by springtime notes of wild berries and mineral nuances.

Palate

Berardenga Riserva 2017 is a wine marked by aromas of crisp fruits and spices. The tannins are supple and the structure is impressive.