WINE REVIEW: Fattoria Selvapiana 2018 Bucerchiale, Chianti Rufina, Italy ($36)

by Andrew Chalk

First created in 1979, Bucerchiale is Selvapiana's flagship wine, a Riserva-level Chianti Rùfina crafted from the grapes of the estate's best vineyard, Bucerchiale. This wine is not a blend, as is common and customary in Chianti, but rather a varietal wine made up of 100% Sangiovese designed to showcase the variety without any adornment or other blending components. Bucerchiale is only made in the best vintages, generally seven or eight times per decade, and is a stunning example of what makes Chianti Rùfina unique.

Appearance: Very transparent crimson;

Nose: Cherry, black pepper;

Palate: Medium-plus acid, firm tannins, dry fruit, oak. Ripples of fruit up front. More earthy notes come through later. Given the light color intensity of this wine there is a surprising amount of flavor. Not a long-term ager. Drink now, or 3-5 years.

Sample