ORIGIN
Estate-grown Chianti Classico DOCG

VINTAGE
2006

GRAPES
90% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot and Syrah

VINIFICATION

During the harvest the grapes from the Peppoli estate in Chianti Classico were carefully selected and the grape varieties were fermented separately to obtain the best from each. After destemming and crushing the Sangiovese grapes macerated in stainless steel vats for about 10 days. For the Merlot and Syrah the maceration process was managed with the aim of preserving the fruity aromas. Fermentation took place at a maximum temperature of 28°C and was followed by malolactic fermentation before the winter. Once the Sangiovese, Merlot and Syrah were blended the wine was placed in 55hl Slavonian oak barrels (and 10% in American oak barriques) for 9 months. We started using American barriques - although in small quantities - to complete the aromatic range of Peppoli. Ageing in larger barrels aims instead to preserve the fruity aromas from fermentation, and sweeten the tannins. After ageing the wine was bottled and then further aged in the bottles before release. Alcohol : 13.0% Vol.

HISTORY
Introduced in 1988 with the 1985 vintage, Pèppoli Chianti Classico DOCG is the archetypal modern Chianti Classico. In a departure from traditional Chiantis, Pèppoli combines the complexity and structure of a well-aged riserva with the fruity fragrance of a young wine. This style is made possible by a unique microclimate where east-northeast facing vineyards are planted in a small heat-retaining valley on mineral-rich rocky soils that are perfect for growing very fruity, lively Sangiovese. The wine further benefits from the use of better Sangiovese clones, severe grape bunch selection, delayed and cluster harvest when necessary. The wine is produced on Antinori's Pèppoli Estate, which extends over 100 hectares (247 acres), 55 (136 acres) of which are under vine .

TASTE
Intense red fruit aromas, especially redcurrants and raspberries, are amplified by light hints of vanilla and coffee sensations. This full-bodied wine is pleasantly lingering with soft, sweet tannins. It should be drunk while still young for full expression of the fruit.

750 ml