Wines Chianti Riolite Vini - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Riolite Vini’s 2020 Chianti DOC is an expressive red from the heart of Tuscany, crafted predominantly from Sangiovese grapes, the variety that defines the Chianti style. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm growing season, lending the wine both ripe fruit flavours and a vibrant acidity that is typical of well-made Chianti. The terroir, characterised by a blend of clay and limestone (locally called “galestro” and “alberese”), ensures an excellent balance between structure and freshness. Traditional vinification methods, including fermentation in stainless steel vats with moderate maceration times, bring forward juicy red cherry, plum, and subtle herbaceous notes, while preserving the grape’s lively character. Gentle oak ageing, if applied, enhances spices and softens the tannins without overpowering the fruit.

The Chianti DOC region is revered globally for its historical significance; winemaking there stretches back to Etruscan times. Rolling hills, a generally mild Mediterranean climate, and variations in elevation contribute to slow ripening and aromatic complexity. The influence of altitude protects acidity in the grapes, and the mineral-rich soils impart a distinctive earthiness and finesse to the finished wines. Chianti’s history as one of the world’s oldest defined wine areas adds a sense of tradition and authenticity to every bottle—it is a wine as much about place and heritage as it is about flavour.

Ideal food pairings for this Chianti include classic Tuscan fare: think bistecca alla fiorentina (grilled Florentine steak), wild boar ragù, or simple tomato-based pasta dishes like pappardelle al pomodoro. Its lively acidity and moderate tannins also complement roasted game and semi-hard cheeses such as pecorino toscano. For a more international approach, try it with grilled chicken or Mediterranean-style vegetables.

To best appreciate the aromatic complexity and balance of this wine, serve it at a temperature between 16-18°C. Decanting for thirty minutes before tasting will allow the fruit and subtle savoury nuances to express themselves fully.