Wilson Daniels Day 2: Volpaia Chianti Classico
The 2023 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico DOCG, proudly imported by Wilson Daniels, is a great expression of Tuscany’s heritage and precision winemaking at high elevation. Sourced from the heart of the Chianti Classico region and crafted in an 11th-century hilltop village, its certified organic vineyards and meticulous attention to terroir, Volpaia continues to set the standard for elegant, high-altitude Sangiovese. As with everything else that Wilson Daniels imports, this is a gem of the appellation.
Perched between 1,300 and 1,870 feet above sea level, the estate’s vineyards benefit from diverse sun exposures and mineral-rich soils of sandstone and clay. These unique growing conditions contribute to the wine’s vibrancy and structure. The 2023 vintage presented challenges early in the season, with cool, rainy months followed by a warm, dry summer that allowed the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness. In years where I am seeing Chianti alcohol approaching 15% on the label (and in honesty beyond that) the high elevation really is a standout benefit for the estate. Creating the all important diurnal temperature change and an opportunity to source from north and east facing slopes to mitigate over-ripeness.
Composed primarily of Sangiovese with a small splash of Merlot, this Chianti Classico is aged for 12 months in large old oak casks, preserving the purity of the fruit while softening tannins.. Volpaia’s innovative “wineduct” gravity-flow system ensures gentle handling from grape to bottle, reinforcing their commitment to quality at every step.
As a cornerstone of the estate, the Chianti Classico embodies Castello di Volpaia’s philosophy: respect for tradition, dedication to organic farming, and a pursuit of elegance. Imported by Wilson Daniels, this wine offers a remarkable opportunity to experience one of Tuscany’s most historic producers through a modern, refined lens.
91 Points, Decanter
"Cool heights upwards of 600 metres with sunny exposures from southwest through to southeast make for a well-defined, vibrant annata. Scents of pepper-inflected wild dark and redcurrants lead to a juicy mouthful, where that small pinch of Merlot lends fleshy plum to the mix. Frisky, citrussy acidity meets easy going, rounded tannins for a harmonious package. Cheerful and moreish, this is a trusty example from the Radda district."