Gioventu - Sangiovese Blend - Chianti, Tuscany, IT - 2022

Notes from the Winery/Importer

Gioventu Chianti comes from Michael Schmeltzer, the man behind our beloved Monte Bernardi wines. As expected, this wine is fantastic. From younger vines (planted in 2010) of Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Ciliegiolo. After the grapes are crushed, the wine ferments naturally in cement tanks. Aging in also in cement and lasts 12 months. There is no fining or filtering before bottling. The color of the wine shows a burgundy center, becoming a clearer, burnt red on the edges. The nose is bold, with complex layers of fruit and earth. Aromas of black cherry, dark red flowers, and crushed, loamy rocks are at the core, with spicy, woodsy smells of milled black pepper and autumnal dried leaves right above it. The palate is focused on savory fruits of blackberry, cherry, and red citrus, freshened by a zing of clean minerality. Structure-wise, this wine has power, with long lasting acidity, and tannin on the top of the gums and down the tongue. ORGANIC - Country: - Italy - How much so2 added: - 40 mg/l - Climate: - Mediterranean climate - Harvest Technique: - Hand harvested - Soil: - clay soils - Fermentation: - After the grapes are crushed, the wine ferments naturally in cement tanks. - Elevage: - Aging in also in cement and lasts 12 months. There is no fining or filtering before bottling. - Winemaker Name: - Michael Schmeltzer - Filtration: - No - Fining: - No - Total Production: - 700 cases - Sustainable Practice: - Yes

Notes on the Producer

Michael Schmelzer's "Gioventu" wine line is an ode to their shared beliefs, customs, and lifestyle. They are all connected by the shared meanings of their culture's symbols. Their memories and customs bind them to the past, yet their future progress is inevitable and unstoppable. Gioventu Chianti and Falanghina are two examples of Michael Schmelzer's wines that draw from the Italian winemaking history while yet evoking the spirit of creativity that informs all of his work.

Michael Schmelzer, Monte Bernardi's visionary viticulturist and oenologist, followed his heart and uprooted his life to Panzano in Chianti in 2003. With a passion for food, wine and adventure, Michael completed winemaking studies in Australia before embarking on the search that led him to Monte Bernardi. He crafts exceptional wines that express the essence of Monte Bernardi’s terroir with expertise and intuition, supported by a talented multinational team in the office, vineyards, and cellar.
The historic region of Chianti Classico is rich in farming, wine and cultural traditions. In Italy, food is key to the soul and most conversation; Chianti Classico has always been the perfect accompaniment to cherished local dishes such as bistecca Fiorentina, ribollita, and stracotto (beef stew).

We are passionate about traditional farming and winemaking practices; we believe they are key to creating uniquely expressive wines. By adapting these time-honored and proven methods to our specific vineyard sites, guided by an intuitive approach to seasonal and longer-term climatic challenges, we produce exceptional wines, respecting vintage and regional character.

Biodynamics is a collection of preserved traditions in the vineyard, a kind of homeopathy and inherent respect for everything living in our environment, not just grapevines, but also our complex living soils. These old practices, passed down from generation to generation within many regions of Europe, were ultimately collected and preserved by Rudolf Steiner under the umbrella of the philosophy termed “Biodynamics”.

These are the ideas that have guided our farming philosophy and winemaking principles for over 20 years. Our wines are free of modern additions and technology, fining or filtration, and our vineyards have been farmed organically and biodynamically since 2004.

From vine to bottle, our wines are crafted with love, care and respect for the environment and our team.