San Giusto a Rentennano is one of the best-loved estates in Chianti Classico: it stands at Gaiole in Chianti among the remains of an ancient monastery and has belonged to the Martini di Cigala family since 1914. Today it is run by the next generation of the family, with organically farmed vineyards; it is also famous for Percarlo and Vin San Giusto.
La Ricolma is their pure Merlot, from vineyards on galestro, sandstone and marly limestone. Spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, about two weeks of maceration, then 22 months in French oak barriques, with a measured use of new wood.
2018, a balanced and fresh vintage in Chianti, produced a powerful yet silky Merlot: plum, sour cherry, violet, fine cocoa and a long, dry finish. One of Italy's most sought-after hillside Merlots, in the same conversation as the great Tuscan Merlots such as Masseto and L'Apparita. With duck, pigeon, fillet steak or aged cheeses.
At a glance: Merlot 100% · 15% ABV · 0.75 l · San Giusto a Rentennano, Gaiole in Chianti (SI)