Melini Chianti San Lorenzo 2023

The Melini Winery dates back to 1705, and is one of the Chianti region’s oldest and most historic wineries. Melini owns over 1,200 acres in Chianti most of which are in the prime Chianti Classico zone. Throughout its history, Melini has aggressively embraced innovations that improve quality. Founder Adolpho Laborel Melini used pasteurization in winemaking 33 years before Louis Pasteur wrote about the process. Melini introduced the fiasco strapeso, a tempered glass bottle that made possible the export of Chianti to foreign markets. Varietals: 85% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot Terroir: The vineyards that produce San Lorenzo sit on the grounds of Melini’s primary cellars, an area traditionally acclaimed for their fortunate combinations of soil, aspect and climate. The vineyards sit on the hillsides surrounding the property with elevations reaching 1,000 feet. Soils vary across the property with a combination of Galestro (a loose, marl-like schist soil), albarese (weathered sandstone from sedimentary, compact limestone rocks), and clay. Vinification: Harvest begins in early October as the Sangiovese grapes achieve optimum ripeness. The aging process is short, (4 to 5 months) and occurs in new and old and a small part in barriques. Tasting Notes: This fresh, clean and overall delightful wine has a bright ruby color and characteristic bouquet of red-berry fruit and violets with a faint note of almond on the finish. An unrivaled introduction to Tuscany and Italian wines.