2021 Chianti Classico

Angela Fronti’s 2021s are impressive, their recent bottling notwithstanding. Istine is a relatively new estate, but the family has a distinguished history in Chianti Classico, most of it tied to the development of vineyards for other wineries. The range includes a Chianti Classico, three vineyard designates and a Riserva, all from top sites in Radda and Gaiole. The focus is squarely on farming, first and foremost.

The wines are made in a small warehouse space in Radda. All of the Chianti Classico vineyard designates are vinified in cement (stainless steel for the Chianti Classico) with submerged cap maceration. Malolactic fermentation follows, also in cement. Aging is 15 months in wood, with a preference for Stockinger casks, although there are a variety of coopers in the cellar. The Riserva sees a bit more time in wood, which I don’t think is necessarily to its advantage. Readers should note that the Cavarchione, Casanova dell'Aia and Vigna Istine are now Gran Seleziones and will be released next year. In recent years, Fronti has acquired parcels in other parts of Chianti Classico that may become new wines, but that decision lies in the future. For now, readers should seek out these wines, as they capture all of the energy and enthusiasm of the younger generation in Chianti Classico.