Istine is an excellent under-the-radar producer that hit it out of the park in 2021, making one of the single best buys in Tuscany this vintage. Chianti Classico Riserva "Levigne" is 100% Sangiovese drawn from the estate's high-elevation parcels in Radda (Istine and Casanova dell'Aia) and Gaiole (Cavarchione), located at high elevations of 1,500 ft+ and planted on alberese and galestro soils. Fermentation runs long and gentle for approximately 45 days in a cement tank with a submerged cap—followed by aging in large Slavonian casks for 24 months and an extended bottle rest to refine the structure and bouquet. The 2021 season in Chianti Classico yielded ripe tannins, vivid acidity, and excellent balance, which the wine showcases perfectly. It's a high-altitude Riserva that marries Radda tension to Gaiole depth and absolutely overdelivers for the category. It's a standout example of the vintage, and we cant think of a better way to get acquainted with this producer than with the single best example of Levigne ever made here!
Vinous 96 points! "The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Levigne is fabulous. Bright, punchy and vibrant, the 2021 is fabulous. Bright acids lift a core of red/purplish fruit, while floral and spice notes appear later and add freshness. This is the first vintage with a dollop of whole clusters (10%), an approach that works beautifully here. I also find the oak better integrated than in the past. I especially admire the wine's translucent energy. (Drink between 2025-2036)"
Decanter 96 points! "A selection from the estate’s three vineyards – Istine and Casanova dell'Aia in Radda, and Cavarchione in Gaiole – this could be Istine's best Riserva yet. And quality-wise, it stands on equally footing with owner Angela Fronti’s cru bottlings. As it ages for several months longer in wood, Fronti experimented with some whole bunch fruit from Cavarchione to inject freshness and elegance. Sumptuous aromas exude raspberry and dark cherry punctuated by mint and pepper. It reconciles a friskiness of spirit with a velvetiness of mouthfeel, where suede-textured tannins build with a youthful chewiness. An appetising finish of bitter forest roots. "
2021 Istine Chianti Classico Riserva Levigne
2021 Istine Chianti Classico Riserva Levigne
Istine is an excellent under-the-radar producer that hit it out of the park in 2021, making one of the single best buys in Tuscany this vintage. Chianti Classico Riserva "Levigne" is 100% Sangiovese drawn from the estate's high-elevation parcels in Radda (Istine and Casanova dell'Aia) and Gaiole (Cavarchione), located at high elevations of 1,500 ft+ and planted on alberese and galestro soils. Fermentation runs long and gentle for approximately 45 days in a cement tank with a submerged cap—followed by aging in large Slavonian casks for 24 months and an extended bottle rest to refine the structure and bouquet. The 2021 season in Chianti Classico yielded ripe tannins, vivid acidity, and excellent balance, which the wine showcases perfectly. It's a high-altitude Riserva that marries Radda tension to Gaiole depth and absolutely overdelivers for the category. It's a standout example of the vintage, and we cant think of a better way to get acquainted with this producer than with the single best example of Levigne ever made here!
Vinous 96 points! "The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Levigne is fabulous. Bright, punchy and vibrant, the 2021 is fabulous. Bright acids lift a core of red/purplish fruit, while floral and spice notes appear later and add freshness. This is the first vintage with a dollop of whole clusters (10%), an approach that works beautifully here. I also find the oak better integrated than in the past. I especially admire the wine's translucent energy. (Drink between 2025-2036)"
Decanter 96 points! "A selection from the estate’s three vineyards – Istine and Casanova dell'Aia in Radda, and Cavarchione in Gaiole – this could be Istine's best Riserva yet. And quality-wise, it stands on equally footing with owner Angela Fronti’s cru bottlings. As it ages for several months longer in wood, Fronti experimented with some whole bunch fruit from Cavarchione to inject freshness and elegance. Sumptuous aromas exude raspberry and dark cherry punctuated by mint and pepper. It reconciles a friskiness of spirit with a velvetiness of mouthfeel, where suede-textured tannins build with a youthful chewiness. An appetising finish of bitter forest roots. "
