Badia a Coltibuono, Sangioveto di Toscana

Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono’s history dates back to 1051, to the Vallombrosan order of monks, whose fine abbey (‘Badia’ ) still stands proud at the heart of the wine property; ‘Coltibuono’ means ‘good crop’. Current owners, the Stucchi Prinetti family now operate the winery and bring this most traditional of wine estates inot the 21st century. At 74 hectares it is fortunate in owning a significant slice of subzone/sottozona Monti in Chianti, whose excellent terroir is much prized. Another asset is their stock of ancient Sangiovese clones, which they have used to replant key sites at higher densities of 7-8,000 Sangiovese plants per hectare; as opposed to the ultra-traditional pattern of low densities of red and white grapes. "Badia a Coltibuono is one of the most historic and important of the Chianti estates…The Badia Chiantis remain among the most expansive and richest of all the Chiantis. From recent vintages one can see that some wonderfully rich, ripe wines are being made here with cellaring potential of 5-10 years." - Robert Parker Wine Buyer's Guide