Province of Siena
Established: 1981
Owners: Beppe Poggiali
Winemaker: Franco Bernabei
Production: 400,000 bottles
Hectares under vine: 65
Viticulture: Organic
Farnetella has 65 hectares planted, mostly to Sangiovese but also small amounts of Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon at altitudes from 200 to 560 metres above sea level. The more southerly location of the Colli Senesi results in a softer style of Chianti than the neighbouring Classico region.
Farnetella Chianti is produced from hand-picked, low yield fruit which is allowed extended maceration and then barrel aged for up to 12 months, with a further six months in bottle prior to release. The blend is 92% Sangiovese, 8% Merlot, giving a pristine wine of deep mulberry colour and dark cherry fruit, medium bodied with great depth of flavour and persistence. A better value in classy Chianti may be hard to find.
