The Rufina zone is the smallest in Chianti (about 600 hectares of vineyard) but also one of the most special. The cool breeze that blows down the Sieve Valley gives the best wines a finesse and definition that few in Chianti Classico can match, and there is no better producer in Rufina than Selvapiana, which has been in the family of Francesco Giuntini since 1827. Grapes for the Chianti Rufina were both hand and machine harvested. Fermentation took place partly in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks and partly in cement tanks. The wine was aged for 12 months in a mixture of French oak barrels and cement tanks before blending and bottling. Vibrant ruby red in colour, this wine has aromas of ripe blackberry and red cherry, with a hint of spice. The palate is ripe and juicy but still elegant and true to Selvapiana’s classic style, with a tight structure and lifted, floral finish that is balanced perfectly by refreshing acidity.[#intro]The best Chianti Rufina display a finesse & definition few in Chianti Classico can match...[/intro]