Castello Sonnino
MONTESPERTOLI | FLORENCE
TUSCANY
| Founded: | 1600 | |
| Owner: | De Renzis Sonnino Family | |
| Winemaker: | Renato Laconi | |
| Hectares under vines: | 40ha | |
| Altitude above sea level: | 220m to 300m | |
| Average annual production: | 190,000 bottles | |
| Green code: | Lutte Raisonée |
WHAT THEY SAY
Castello Sonnino is a perfectly preserved historic wine estate with a thirteenth-century tower, a symbol of the territory of Montespertoli, which overlooks the Chianti valleys near Florence. Here, for over two centuries, the Sonnino family has been producing wines and extra-virgin olive oils of remarkable character, using a profound knowledge and love of the earth with a constant spirit of research.
WHAT WE SAY
Looking at this glorious and historic Estate it is difficult to imagine that Montespertoli is the newest and smallest sub-zone to be officially recognized as one of seven sub-denominations incorporated in the Chianti DOCG classification (created in 1997, it was formerly part of Chianti Colli Fiorentini.)
And in a sense, it is only recently when the current generation of the de Renzis Sonnino family took the helm of the Estate that the Castle started a new phase of its life, especially in the production of wine.
The wines produced are classic Chianti. Very enjoyable and elegant, the perfect combination of terroir, tradition, modern techniques and extensive research.
WHAT OTHERS SAY:
Whilst many Chianti estates were adopting a more international style of winemaking in the ‘80s and 90s, Baron Alessandro de Renzis preferred to maintain a more traditional approach, eschewing barriques and aggressive extractions. The Castello retains the region’s last remaining ‘vinsantaia’ (traditional vin santo cellars).
The wines from Sonnino emphasise floral perfume, bright fruits and crunchy acidity.
"...2020 Castello Montespertoli Riserva is the flagship wine of this gorgeous estate centred on a beautiful 16th century mansion and just 20 minutes from Florence. A blend of 80 per cent Sangiovese and 10 per cent each of Merlot and Cab Sauv, each variety is fermented separately before being blended and aged for 18 months in large old oak barrels. Full of ripe cherry fruit and a touch of spice, it’s just hitting its stride and is an absolute delight." (Jonathan Ray for the Spectator Wine Club)
WINES WE IMPORT:
REDS:
Chianti Montespertoli DOCG
Chianti Riserva Montespertoli DOCG