Chianti Classico DOCG Monte Bernardi ‘Retromarcia’ 2019

Country: Italy

Region: Chianti Classico

Grape: Sangiovese

Volume: 75cl 

ABV: 13.5%

Vintage: 2020

Suitable for Vegans: Yes 

Suitable for Vegetarians: Yes

Food pairing: Spicy ‘nduja with olives, fire-roasted peppers and sun-dried tomatoes. Think dark, smoky and sweet dishes with a little chilli heat.

Retromarcia means “to back up” or “to reverse” and is Michael Schmelzer’s reference to an old approach to Chianti that is hard to find today, focused on allowing the character of Sangiovese to show above everything else.  The wine is made from 100% Sangiovese composed of young vines planted on a mix of galestro and sandstone soils.  The grapes are fermented with native yeast on the skins for 2 weeks in stainless steel and then raised in a mixture of old barrels and unlined concrete tanks for 18 months before being bottled unfiltered. In the glass, the wine has a deep red center, with pale red edges. The nose is enticing, with wild red berries, stems and leaves, fragrant warm spices, and a hint of freshly cracked coconut. On the palate, the wine is plummy, with red and black stone fruit. There is a nuance of cocoa and a long minty finish. As a classic Chianti should be, the acidity is mouthwatering, warming up the palate for a range of food. American-born Michael Schmelzer studied winemaking in Australia before settling in Chianti Classico. He purchased the Monte Bernardi estate in 2003 and uses old techniques rather than new technology to craft very distinct, savoury wines that speak profoundly of place. Bringing together the youngest vines from throughout the estate’s 15 hectares, Retromarcia is gloriously youthful and pure exuding violets, dark cherry and mint blossom. There is a slight fleshiness and moreish bounty to the 2018. Juicy with soft tannins and an appetizing balsamic finish, this is simply a pleasure to drink. Drink now-2025

We offer this wine as part of a case deal, six wines ideal for sipping in the summer sun while you grill!