Wines Chianti Classico Tenuta Perano - Rialzi Gran Selezione - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Tenuta Perano’s Cuvée Rialzi Gran Selezione 2020 is an exceptional expression of Chianti Classico, crafted from predominantly Sangiovese grapes, possibly complemented by small percentages of local varieties as tradition allows. This "Gran Selezione" signifies a rigorous selection of the estate’s best fruit, coming from specific vineyard parcels and aged longer than standard Chianti Classico. The 2020 vintage benefited from a relatively balanced growing season, with cool spring rains followed by a warm, sunny summer, allowing the grapes to ripen evenly and develop superb concentration. The wine’s vinification typically includes an extended maceration period to extract maximum colour, aroma, and tannic structure, followed by maturation in oak barrels, which imparts additional layers of complexity and a refined structure.

The Chianti Classico region in Tuscany is famed for its rolling hills, stony soils rich in galestro (a crumbly marl) and alberese (limestone), and a continental climate marked by warm days and cool nights. This terroir brings freshness and vibrancy to the wines, alongside a marked minerality and aromatic lift. The area’s viticultural history dates back centuries, with Chianti gaining official recognition as early as 1716, and the Classico zone occupying the historic core between Florence and Siena. This long tradition, combined with modern winemaking flair, makes wines like Tenuta Perano’s Cuvée Rialzi stand out for their elegance, purity, and sense of place.

Food pairings for this Gran Selezione should honour its depth and finesse. Tuscan cuisine offers many ideal matches: bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine T-bone steak), grilled lamb, wild boar ragù over pappardelle, or aged pecorino cheese. The wine’s firm tannins and bright acidity will also complement roast duck, mushroom risotto, or even a rustic tomato-based casserole. For a classic pairing, enjoy it with ragù di cinghiale (wild boar sauce) on fresh pasta to echo the regional harmony.

Serve this Chianti Classico Gran Selezione at 16-18°C after a period of aeration to reveal its bouquet of dark cherry, violet, wild herbs, and subtle spice. Decanting an hour before serving will help soften the tannins and allow its full aromatic complexity to unfurl. This wine will evolve beautifully in bottle over the next decade, rewarding a bit of patience in the cellar.