Mansalto La Commenda Chianti Superiore DOCG 2022

Mansalto La Commenda Chianti Superiore DOCG 2022 A 14th-century estate, a 21st-century winery, and a Chianti built to make you question why you ever looked elsewhere. Grape Varietals & Region: 90% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Merlot, from estate vineyards in the municipalities of Bucine and Monte San Savino, Arezzo, Tuscany. Vineyards sit at 470–600 metres altitude on sandy schist soils, planted at 5,000 vines per hectare, just 5km outside the Chianti Classico DOCG boundary — sharing its climatic and geological character. Classified as Chianti Superiore DOCG, this designation follows stricter rules including lower yields and longer ageing requirements than standard Chianti. Taste Profile: Aromas of dark fruits, black olives, chocolate, and wet asphalt lead to a medium-bodied, soft palate with round tannins — juicy and spicy but not too concentrated, with a fruity finish. Wild berries and Mediterranean herbs carry through to the palate alongside crushed raspberry, red cherry, and pliant tannins, with notes of white pepper and a hint of black tea adding interest — fresh acidity keeps it thoroughly savoury and bright. Rated 90pts by James Suckling. Ideal with pasta al ragù, grilled lamb, or aged pecorino. Winemaking Process: Fermented in stainless steel and concrete, with 18 months' maturation in concrete. A light touch in the winery means no oak and minimal additions used along the way — an approach that keeps the wine pure, fresh, and expressive of its high-altitude Tuscan terroir. Average yields at Mansalto sit around 5 tonnes per hectare, versus the Chianti DOCG maximum of approximately 9 tonnes per hectare, resulting in a concentration that belies the wine's approachable price point