CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE
Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin
GRAPE VARIETY
85% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon
TASTING NOTES
Basilica San Martino Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2020 from Cafaggio is an iconic, age-worthy red from the heart of Chianti Classico, born from a historic 3.82-hectare organic vineyard exposed south-south-east, dedicated to the ancient church of San Martino in Cecione. First vintage in 1985, this Gran Selezione blends Tuscan tradition with an international stamp through Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in French oak barrels and cement for velvety elegance. The 2020 vintage in Chianti Classico benefited from a balanced climate with a warm summer and distributed rainfall, producing ripe grapes with fine tannins and lively acidity, ideal for ageing up to 10-15 years. It stands out for its fruity concentration and harmonious structure, perfectly expressing the Basilica vineyard's potential. Nestled in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano-Radda, this UNESCO Chianti Classico site features galestro-clay soils at 400-500 m a.s.l., with constant ventilation imparting spicy minerality and unique freshness. The Basilica vineyard, organically farmed with guyot training and low yields, captures the fresh essence of this historic terroir, mentioned as early as 1408 by Benedictine monks. Dominant Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon creates a profile rich in cherry, violet, and balsamic spices, where the Cabernet adds international complexity and velvety structure. Long maceration with submerged cap and malolactic in wood preserve varietal purity, making it a fine organic Gran Selezione. It appears as intense ruby with luminous garnet reflections. On the nose, ripe cherries, plum, violet, sweet spices, tobacco, and balsamic hints. In the mouth, it is full and persistent, with silky tannins, crisp freshness, and a finish on cocoa and minerals. Cafaggio, a 33-hectare biodynamic estate in Panzano since 1970 (purchased by the Farkas family in the 1960s), was modernised from 2014 for global markets. The name "Cafaggio" derives from "Cahago" (enclosed field) in a 1408 parchment; Basilica San Martino, the winery's emblem, celebrates the ancient church of San Martino in Cecione.