This post has been sponsored by Terra di Seta. All opinions expressed are my own. The following message is intended for those 21+.
Located in the heart of Tuscany, Terra di Seta is a family-run winery producing organic, kosher wines. In addition to being beloved for their high-quality Sangiovese grapes, the key grape behind Tuscany's renowned Chianti wines, Terra di Seta has the distinction of being Italy's only 100% kosher estate-vineyard winery.
Today, we're taking a look at the Assai 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. Now, without further introduction, let's get tasting.
Wine Overview
Quick Facts
Winery: Terra di Seta was founded in 2001 by the husband-and-wife team Daniele Della Seta and Maria Pellegrini. Initially, the estate produced grapes for other wineries, but began producing its own wines in 2007. By 2008, they had swapped their entire production to fully kosher wines. The winery itself is located on a hill near Siena, in the Castelnuovo Berardenga commune, with its vineyards positioned at around 1600 feet above sea level
Grape Varietals: Chianti, by regulation, must be produced from Sangiovese grapes. Sangiovese grapes typically feature bright red fruit flavors such as cherry, red plum, and red currant. They also have herbal and savory notes, such as dried herbs, tomato leaf, and roasted peppers. Floral notes, though rarer, are not unheard of, especially violet. Sangiovese grapes are naturally highly acidic with strong tannins, giving the wines good structure and making them versatile food wines.
ABV: 14.5% alcohol by volume.
Price: $50 to $65, varying by vintage and retailer.
Region, Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany
The region covers the central area of Tuscany, roughly the hilly area between the cities of Florence and Siena. This area is picturesque, featuring rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards, and medieval villages. The area is graced by a primarily Mediterranean climate, boasting warm and sunny summers, with mild winters. Winters are often fairly damp. The hills are part of the Apennine foothills, meaning that the vineyards are planted at elevations between 250 and 500 meters above sea level, allowing the grapes to benefit from warm days and cool nights. This is absolutely crucial for slow and even ripening, which allows Sangiovese to develop the complex flavors and high acidity for which it is prized.
Aromatic and Tasting Notes
On the Nose
Off the top of the glass, the wine features a lovely bouquet of fruity aromas, especially strawberry and red currants, punctuated by earthy and spicy notes. Deeper into the glass, the wine features plum and dark cherry essences, with just a hint of licorice lingering in the background. A whiff of fresh tobacco leaf makes itself known towards the end.
On the Palate
The wine is full-bodied, with a rich and layered mouthfeel, carrying lush herbal notes and a hint of balsamic essence, with bright acidity and well-integrated tannins.
Finish
The finish is long and persistent, but pleasant and smooth, without overstaying its welcome.
Food Pairings
By the book Chianti pairings are the way to go. Here are my top choices:
- Grilled Steak: I say this with every Chianti I review - grilled beef. Chianti and beef are a match made in heaven due to Chianti's robust tannins and acidity. In addition, the wine's red fruit aromatics and profile, punctuated by hints of earthy notes, will deliciously complement the rich, smoky flavors of a well-seared steak.
- Red Sauces: A rich red tomato sauce and good Chianti are always delicious together. That means spaghetti marinara or penne arrabbiata. Add in some meatballs and sausages, and you've got one of my favorite Chianti pairings.
- Red Meat: While beef is great, you can also consider lamb chops, venison, and boar. These are all delicious pairings with a Chianti Classic. Consider preparing these meats thoroughly herbed with plenty of garlic.
- Tuscan Cuisine: This one should be obvious, but Tuscan cuisine pairs deliciously with Tuscan wine. That means dishes like bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak) or wild boar ragu.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto, with plenty of mozzarella, preferably layered with mushrooms or sausage, would be delicious.
Where to Buy
As of this review, I would recommend Kosherwine.com, Kosher Wine Warehouse, and IDrinkkosher.com as being great places to find this wine.
And that's our review of the 2018 Assai Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. If you enjoyed this review, or sampled the wine or any of its pairings, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you!
Cheers!
0
Leave a Comment