Angela Fronti Istine Chianti Classico Docg 2021

Istine Chianti Classico 2021, the Sangiovese from Radda

In this Chianti Classico, the Sangiovese shows fresh fruit, lively acidity and a delicately balsamic touch. I recommend it for its balance between indulgence and finesse: a character-driven red, meant to accompany a meal that takes its time rather than waiting for a grand occasion.

From the Chianti hills to your glass

The story of Istine begins in 2009, when the Fronti family, who had grown grapes for other producers for years, decided to bottle their own wines. The project is rooted in the hills of Chianti Classico, in Tuscany, and in the family's long-standing ties with Radda in Chianti. Angela Fronti blends Sangiovese from several plots in Radda and Gaiole in Chianti, situated around 500 meters above sea level. These different sites lend their imprint to a wine that aims to let the grape and the landscape speak.

Organic farming has been part of the estate's philosophy since 2016, with careful attention paid to the land and to those who work it. For the 2021 vintage, fermentation takes place in concrete and stainless steel tanks. The wine then spends twelve months in large Slovenian oak casks, partly supplemented by aging in concrete. This choice supports the fruit without masking it: it gives the wine a sense of structure from aging, while preserving the freshness and the expression of the plots. The result remains faithful to a Chianti Classico in which Sangiovese takes center stage.

To the eye, the color is cherry red. The nose combines tart cherry and red fruits with fresh herbs and spices, over a delicately earthy and balsamic base. On the palate, the whole is balanced and fresh; the lively acidity supports the fruit, while a mineral note adds depth. The tannins are fine and elegant, and the finish extends the fruity notes with persistence. I find in this blend of freshness, substance and precision a fine way of approaching the style of Chianti Classico, without reducing it to a simple table wine.

At the table, without waiting for an occasion

I would serve it with red meat, game or aged cheeses, pairings that echo its fruit and tannins. It can also accompany a spicy dish: its notes of red fruit, herbs and spices then provide a natural echo to the meal. Picture a large platter in the middle of the table, a few guests and a conversation that stretches on; that is precisely the kind of moment this wine seems destined for. You can choose it for a warm dinner, without any particular ceremony, letting its freshness keep the dish company. Angela Fronti Istine 2021 thus brings a piece of the hills of Radda and Gaiole to the table, in a style that is at once fruity, lively and delicately structured.