Panzano is just about in the middle of Chianti Classico, but it’s a pretty small community, overshadowed by and officially lumped in with the larger town of Greve to the north, but Panzano’s Chianti growers have an unusually strong sense of identity. Almost every one of them farms organically. Most of them farm vineyards on a distinct mixture of Galestro marl and a vein of Albarese limestone, lending wines more finesse than usual. Finally, most vineyards in Panzano are on steeper, rougher terrain, hand farmed, and owned by small estates. Panzano’s Chianti is different from the rest of it.

This wine is made from strictly traditional Chianti varieties. 94% Sangiovese and the rest is Malvasia Nera Colorino and Canaiolo. The aroma is classy cranberry, raspberry, calcareous clay soil, vanilla bean, and white pepper. The palate is tensile, taut, clean cut red fruits and dusty earth.