Bucciarelli Gandino 2017

Bucciarelli Gandino 2017, Tuscany's living memory

There is, in the Bucciarelli Gandino 2017, a way of putting tradition ahead of trends. This organic red from Tuscany combines ripe cherry and plum with spicy, vanilla and woody notes, then lingers on dark chocolate and earth. I recommend it if you're looking for a structured wine whose silky texture keeps a sense of freshness.

A Tuscan red true to its roots

Made by Antico Podere Casanova, the Gandino is presented as an IGP Rosso Toscana. Its grapes come from certified organic vineyards on the Tuscan hillsides, in a temperate climate and fertile soils. The harvest is done by hand: only the finest grapes are kept, with a selection of Sangiovese and Canaiolo. The blend combines 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo, two grape varieties that anchor this cuvée in the region's winemaking heritage.

The story of the Gandino dates back to the 1990s. At a time when indigenous grape varieties and traditional chestnut barrels were falling out of fashion, Ezio Bucciarelli chose to stay true to the character of the terroir and the spirit of Chianti Classico. He created this wine as a tribute to Tuscan roots, using local varieties and wood aging. Its name combines "Gano" and "Dino", the first two members of the Bucciarelli family to run the estate. The cuvée is only produced in selected vintages.

In the cellar, the grapes are gently pressed and then fermented in stainless steel tanks, in order to preserve their fruity expression. Aging in wood then adds structure and complexity. One detail deserves to be kept: the available information mentions eight months in oak barrels, while the story of the cuvée refers to chestnut barrels. I therefore retain the confirmed common point, a passage through wood, without deciding on the type of wood used for this vintage.

In the glass, its color is a deep ruby. The nose blends intense aromas of ripe cherry and juicy plum with delicate spices, then notes of vanilla and wood. On the palate, the silky texture balances fresh acidity and refined tannins. The finish lingers on dark chocolate and earthy nuances. Overall it draws a harmonious, well-structured profile: the fruit remains legible, while the aging supports the wine without erasing its origin.

At the table, with charcuterie

I would serve it with a charcuterie board, a classic pairing for this wine and a natural companion to its delicate tannins and ripe fruit. It will find its place at a relaxed meal, when you want to take the time to follow its aromas from the first nose to the finish. A bottle to open to share a little of this Tuscany, rooted in its grape varieties and its age-old ways.