A memorable wine isn’t defined by its score or its price tag; it’s about that intangible quality that sets a bottle apart – the X-factor. It’s the story behind the wine, the experience of encountering it, and the emotional connection it evokes.
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the Chianti Classico region exudes a timeless charm that captivates both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes adorned with rolling vineyards and medieval villages, this storied area is the birthplace of Italy’s most celebrated red wine.
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Last summer, during a journey through Tuscany’s Chianti Classico region, I came upon Le Filigare, a hidden gem nestled atop a picturesque hill. Little did I know, I was about to discover something truly special – the 2018 ‘Lorenzo’ Chianti Classico Gran Selezione.
Owned and crafted by the talented Alessandro Burchi, Le Filigare is a small-batch, organic estate that embodies the essence of traditional winemaking with a modern twist. As I traversed the rugged terrain to reach the winery, I was greeted by Burchi, who graciously guided me through a tasting of his wines. Each sip revealed a story, but it was the ‘Lorenzo’ that captured my heart and palate.
‘Lorenzo’ is not just a wine; it’s a revelation. A true reflection of its terroir, this Gran Selezione exudes elegance and depth, a wine quite reminiscent of its Brunello counterparts. Made from 100 percent sangiovese grapes, carefully nurtured in the estate’s rocky soils, ‘Lorenzo’ showcases the unique microclimate of Le Filigare. At nearly 600 meters above sea level, the vineyards harness the cooling winds from the nearby sea, infusing the wine with a distinct character.
Alessandro Burchi telling me the stories behind each label, each vintage, and why his estate is such a special piece of property.
The 2018 vintage spent 30 months aging in big oak and tonneaux, resulting in a wine of remarkable complexity. Aromas of blackberry, forest floor and eucalyptus entice the senses, while the bold palate offers layers of drying fruit, subtle vanilla and mocha, balanced by polished tannins. It’s a wine that not only captivates the palate but also leaves a lasting impression.
Reflecting on the evolution of Le Filigare, Burchi notes significant changes in both vineyard management and winemaking techniques. “Our firm’s evolution has been very considerable both in the vineyards and inside the cellars,” he explains. From specialized vineyards to advanced temperature control in fermentation, every aspect of production has been fine-tuned to enhance quality and expressiveness.
Asked about the uniqueness of Le Filigare’s terroir, Burchi emphasizes the estate’s microclimate and rocky terrain. “Our estate is positioned in a specific microclimate, located in the heart of Chianti Classico, on the border between Florence and Siena,” he elaborates. “The powerful marine influence and high altitudes render the microclimate of Le Filigare very similar to that of Montalcino, while our terrain is more rocky and mineral.”
As for the 2018 ‘Lorenzo,’ Burchi praises its balance and expression of the vintage. “It’s a typically well-balanced vintage year in our area, yielding fresh and fragrant wines,” he says. “The collective work of our team remains fundamental in meeting the varying conditions of each harvest year.”
In a region dominated by large, corporate wineries, Le Filigare stands as a place of authenticity and familial craftsmanship. With its commitment to organic farming, small-batch production, and unwavering dedication to quality, Le Filigare epitomizes the essence of Chianti Classico winemaking.
The 2018 ‘Lorenzo’ is not just a wine; it’s an experience, an ode to the land, and a testament to the passion of its maker. With each sip, it invites you to embark on a journey through the rugged hills of Tuscany, where tradition meets innovation, and where every bottle tells a story worth savouring.
The 2018 ‘Lorenzo’ Chianti Classico Gran Selezione was awarded a score of 95 points and named most outstanding red wine of the year for 2023, as published in our VineRoutes Newsletter. To discover more exclusive newsletter-only content, published by VineRoutes editors, sign up here.
