2021 Tenuta di Lilliano Chianti Classico Riserva

Lilliano’s Riserva is a more selective and structured expression of the estate’s vineyards in Castellina in Chianti. It draws on the same identity as the Chianti Classico, but with greater depth, longer maceration and a more complete ageing regime.

The wine is made from 90% Sangiovese with 10% authorised varieties, selected from estate-grown fruit and hand-picked at harvest. Sangiovese remains the centre of the wine: floral, savoury, naturally high in acidity and tannin, and particularly expressive on the stony Alberese soils of Lilliano.

After selection in the vineyard, the grapes are softly crushed and destemmed. Fermentation takes place at controlled temperature, with daily pump-overs and cap management to extract colour, tannin and aromatic depth. Maceration lasts three weeks. Malolactic fermentation takes place in stainless steel, followed by 15 months in French oak tonneaux and a minimum of 6 months in bottle before release.

In the glass, it shows a ruby colour moving towards garnet with age. The nose is intense and elegant, with black cherry, ripe red berries, violet, dried herbs, tobacco, spice and a subtle balsamic note. On the palate, it is structured and persistent, with firm tannins, good acidity and a savoury finish that carries the fruit without becoming heavy.

The Riserva is the more serious and age-worthy side of Tenuta di Lilliano: still recognisably Chianti Classico, but with more density, grip and bottle development. It is built for the table now, and for further evolution over the next decade.

100% Organic.

The classic pairing with a Fiorentina steak, slow-cooked beef preparation, roast lamb or duck breast, aged cheeses.

Serve: 16–18 °C
Drink: 2026–2036