SELVAPIANA `Vigneto Bucerchiale` Chianti Rufina Riserva 2006 Selvapiana is owned by Francesco Giuntini, descendant of the original owner, Michele Giuntini, who bought the estate in 1827. His adopted son, Federico Giuntini Masseti, now runs the estate and makes the wines with consultant Franco Bernabei. Federico is the son of the .fattore. (estate manager) who worked with the Giuntini family all his life. Federico was born on the estate, as was his sister Silvia, who is also involved in running the business. The estate covers 245 hectares of mixed vineyard (50 hectares), olive groves and woods. Rufina is the smallest of the Chianti zones but also one of the most special. The cool breeze blowing down the Sieve Valley gives the best wines a finesse that few in Chianti Classico can match. The Sangiovese grapes were grown in the 12.5 hectare Bucerchiale vineyard on the ancient Selvapiana estate. The oldest part of the vineyard was planted in 1968, and the youngest in 1995. The vineyard faces south/southeast and is situated at 150-200 metres above sea level. The soil is predominantly clay and limestone. The older vines are planted at a density of 2,500 per hectare, whereas the younger ones are planted at 5,200 vines per hectare. 2006 was an outstanding vintage in Tuscany, with perfect autumn weather conditions including long, sunny days and cool nights which allowed tannins to ripen well and encouraged development of the aromatic qualities in the grapes. Fermentation took place partly in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks, and partly in cement tanks, at 30°C and lasted 20-25 days. Pumping over took place daily to extract colour and tannin. After maceration, the grape skins were removed, and malolactic fermentation took place. In January following the harvest, the wine was transferred to medium-sized oak casks and French oak barriques (of which 10% was new) and was matured for 15 months before bottling. The wine has perfumes of wild cherries and cedar, with great structure on the palate. Its balance is characteristic of Selvapiana, with firm, ripe tannins and good acidity. The touch of new oak adds a spicy note to the elegant, berry fruit of the Sangiovese. "Tight, dark, dense black cherry fruit with chalky tannin, mocha and dark chocolate." 16.5 points, www.jancisrobinson.com, Richard Hemming, 26 Feb 09 Vintage 2006 Grape varieties 100% Sangiovese Region Pontassieve Winemaker Federico Masetti Giuntini Consultant Winemaker Franco Bernabei Closure Cork Alcohol (ABV) 14% Bottle Sizes 75cl, 150cl Price: £237.92 (Including VAT at 20%)