Vignamaggio Chianti Classico Terre di Prenzano Review

130,000 bottles, 100% Sangiovese, twenty-year-old vines on sandy soil at the highest point of the Vignamaggio estate in Greve in Chianti. The Terre di Prenzano is Vignamaggio’s entry-level Chianti Classico and shows what honest single-grape work from one good parcel delivers.

The vineyards

Prenzano sits at the highest point on the historic Vignamaggio estate, with sandy soils closer in character to Lamole than to standard Chianti galestro. Vines average twenty years old, yields 45 hectolitres per hectare. Hand harvest in Prenzano and the neighbouring Petriolo.

Vinification

Destemmed, ten days fermentation in stainless steel with skin contact, including délestage and remontage. After racking, malolactic fermentation. Ten to twelve months élevage in large Slavonian oak (botti of 20-40 hectolitres); no barrique. No oak overload, so the grape carries the whole picture. Alcohol 13.5-14%, serving temperature 16-18°C. Available in 375 ml, 750 ml and 1500 ml.

Tasting notes Terre di Prenzano 2020

Deep ruby, silky texture. The nose carries strawberry, raspberry, red and black cherry, plum, blackberry, blueberry, alongside fresh mint, thyme, tomato leaf and a touch of vanilla from the wood.

On the palate full bodied, medium acidity, fine tannins that support without pressure. The finish runs elegant and long, with a fruit-and-herb line that doesn’t fade fast.

At the table

Classic Tuscan partners: bistecca alla fiorentina, pasta with game ragù, grilled lamb, mushroom risotto, aged pecorino. The fine tannins also work with lighter pairings, roast chicken with sage, or even a simple tomato-mozzarella on bread.

Verdict

Not a Riserva or Gran Selezione, but an excellent first impression of what Vignamaggio does. For drinkers wanting Chianti Classico in clean form, one grape, one vineyard, one oak type, a direct recommendation.

Thanks to Vignamaggio for the bottle.

Sources

• Producer (official site)
• Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico (DOCG): chianticlassico.com
• Italian DOC/DOCG regulation: politicheagricole.it