San Felice, an historic estate in the heart of Chianti Classico, has launched its new Vitiarium Collection – four wines championing nearly extinct ancient Tuscan grape varieties. We sampled these remarkable wines: In Avane 2023 Chardonnay Toscana IGT; Borgo 2022 Chianti Classico DOCG; La Pieve 2021 Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione; and Pugnitello 2021 Toscana IGT. Read on for details.
San Felice Vitiarium Collection
Unquestionably, San Felice is known as being at the forefront of innovation and research to revive nearly extinct ancient Tuscan grape varieties. For example, San Felice helped launch the Super Tuscan movement in 1968 with the powerhouse wine, Vigorello. At that time, Vigorello comprised 100% Sangiovese but has since developed into a blend that includes Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Next, San Felice produced Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva, followed by the area’s first single-vineyard Chianti Classico, Poggio Rosso Gran Selezione, in the 1970s.
Subsequently, this innovation continued with San Felice’s Vitiarium Collection – “to authentically express the surrounding vineyards, which are undergoing organic conversion and adhere to the principles of regenerative viticulture.”
Overall, Vitiarium consists of four distinct wines. According to the San Felice, these wines are the culmination of their research for more than 30 years. This took place at the experimental Vitiarium Vineyard, which spans 1.6 hectares, and showcases 231 different grape varieties.
“The winery’s philosophy centers on preserving the unique identity of its wines, deeply rooted in the terroir and centuries-old Tuscan traditions. Through sustainable practices and innovative techniques, San Felice consistently elevates the quality of its offerings, and reinforcing its reputation as a benchmark of Italian winemaking artistry.”
Moreover, each wine in the Vitiarium line tells a distinct story through its eye-catching label.
Vitiarium Collection: In Avane 2023 Chardonnay ($33)
The name “In Avane” comes from from “Avenal” the Etruscan name of the area, and “represents the best expression of San Felice’s Chardonnay.” Yes, this single white wine in the collection is a regional white, made from non-native grapes, “but it has always been a part of the identity of San Felice.” In Avane comprises mostly Chardonnay, with the rest Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Further, In Avane appeals to wine drinkers who prefer non-oaky Chardonnay. This is a substantial, fresh Chard, with notes of honey and tropical fruits. Pair it with any number of appetizers, chicken, or seafood. The floral motif on the label depicts saffron pistils, a plant symbol of Tuscany’s territorial identity.
Borgo 2022 Chianti Classico ($33)
Sangiovese (90%) and Pugnitello (10%) intertwine into a beautiful Chianti Classico that demonstrates the San Felice terroir. Fruity aromas of dark cherries, raspberries, and spices mirror the palate, which also features earthiness and savory notes. Pair Borgo with Tuscan cured meats, mature cheeses or grilled meats. Borgo means “village.” Therefore, the label represents an ancient, panoramic print map of the village that’s home to San Felice. As well, it looks like an old-time postcard.
Vitiarium Collection: La Pieve 2021 Gran Selezione ($50)
La Pieve 2021 Gran Selezione is an intense and concentrated Sangiovese, a superior expression of San Felice’s Chianti Classico. Think rich flavors of cherries, raspberries, plums, almonds, licorice, spices and herbs, threaded with clean minerality. This is a stunning wine already, which will benefit further with a few years more in the bottle. Serve it with roast beef, grilled meats and cheeses. The label incorporates “the polychrome decoration on the presbytery vault of the ancient Pieve.” The black and blue colors are designed to evoke “the peaceful atmosphere of San Felice, surrounded by the vast Tuscan sky, but also invite a new perspective, where history and modernity intertwine harmoniously.”
Pugnitello 2021 IGT ($69)
This is the star of the Vitiarium Collection. Pugnitello is an ancient Tuscan native grape, whose name means “little fist” and refers to the shape of its cluster. This is one velvety smooth, rich, dense red wine. Aromas of cherries, berries, dark plums cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla echo the savory palate, along with hints of mocha and smoky notes. The wine comprises the fruit of 20 years of study and experimentation, focused on saving native Tuscan grapes from extinction. We paired Pugnitello with juicy BBQ steaks. But you could also serve this big, expressive wine with hearty beef stew, rich pasta dishes, veal, or aged cheeses. The label represents the variety of indigenous vines that were recovered and now cultivated in the Vitiarium.
Summary: San Felice Vitiarium Collection
In conclusion, San Felice says it best: “Each bottle tells a chapter of our story, expressing our unwavering pursuit of quality and authenticity. It’s a unique chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Tuscany.”
Thank you for the samples, San Felice and Platinum Media Agency.
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Cheers!
Margot and Dave