Selvapiana

Selvapiana is the defining name in Chianti Rufina, the smallest and perhaps most underappreciated of Chianti's sub-zones. The estate sits in the Sieve Valley, northeast of Florence, where cool air funnelling down from the Apennines gives the Sangiovese a finesse and nervy acidity that can be harder to find in Chianti Classico. The Giuntini family have owned the property since 1827 and have never lost sight of what makes this corner of Tuscany distinctive.

The wines here reflect the same values across the range: bright cherry fruit, good structure, and a slightly lean, food-friendly character that drinks well with a broad range of dishes. Chianti Rufina deserves more attention than it gets, and Selvapiana is the strongest argument for giving it some.