Complete with producer profiles and tags
Marchesi Frescobaldi
Località La Capitana, 58051 Montiano GR, Italia
Categories
Iconic Producers
Location
Central Appellations - Chianti Rufina
One of Tuscany’s most prominent noble families and among Italy’s strongest wine brands, Frescobaldi delivers the gamut from volume-driven to iconic labels. Thirtieth generation, UC Davis-trained Lamberto Frescobaldi has led the company since 2013, overseeing more than eight estates.
It is difficult to choose just one that represents Frescobaldi. Among the most historic, Nipozzano is a reference in Chianti Rùfina. The family now boasts properties in all three major Sangiovese DOCGs with recent purchases of Tenuta Perano for Chianti Classico and Calimaia for Vino Nobile joining Castelgiocondo for Brunello. The latter’s sister estate of Luce featuring a Sangiovese/Merlot blend drew attention for its initial collaboration with Mondavi. Kept under a separate umbrella, the Bolgheri properties of Ornellaia and Masseto are surely Frescobaldi’s superstar Super Tuscans.
The leitmotif across the range is clean, polished, modern wines. Oak is much better managed than in the past but still makes itself known in some of the wines.
Perhaps the most unique of all Frescobaldi’s offerings is the collaboration with the Gorgona Penal Institute. This island off the Tuscan coast is reserved for convicts completing their sentences. They work in the vineyard and cellar to hone skills that will help them find work as they transition back into society. A textural and savoury blend of Vermentino and Ansonica, the white is particularly worth seeking out.
It is difficult to choose just one that represents Frescobaldi. Among the most historic, Nipozzano is a reference in Chianti Rùfina. The family now boasts properties in all three major Sangiovese DOCGs with recent purchases of Tenuta Perano for Chianti Classico and Calimaia for Vino Nobile joining Castelgiocondo for Brunello. The latter’s sister estate of Luce featuring a Sangiovese/Merlot blend drew attention for its initial collaboration with Mondavi. Kept under a separate umbrella, the Bolgheri properties of Ornellaia and Masseto are surely Frescobaldi’s superstar Super Tuscans.
The leitmotif across the range is clean, polished, modern wines. Oak is much better managed than in the past but still makes itself known in some of the wines.
Perhaps the most unique of all Frescobaldi’s offerings is the collaboration with the Gorgona Penal Institute. This island off the Tuscan coast is reserved for convicts completing their sentences. They work in the vineyard and cellar to hone skills that will help them find work as they transition back into society. A textural and savoury blend of Vermentino and Ansonica, the white is particularly worth seeking out.
Flagship Wines
Tenuta Luce Luce
Tenuta CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino
Castello Nipozzano Chianti Rùfina Riserva
Frescobaldi Gorgona