Poggerino Bugialla, Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Italy

A crimson tapestry of forest floor, spice, and Tuscan terroir greets you in the 2018 Poggerino “Bugialla” Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, a bold and expressive Riserva from one of Radda in Chianti’s most respected organic producers. Crafted from a single 1973-vineyard parcel, this wine captures the structure and intensity of Sangiovese with precision and elegance.

Product Details

• Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
• Alcohol Content: 14.5%
• Vineyard: Single vineyard, Vigna Bugialla, planted in 1973; Radda in Chianti, Tuscany
• Viticulture: Organic farming, manual harvest, dense planting, bilateral cordon training
• Vinification & Aging: Grapes are destemmed, fermented with indigenous yeasts in concrete for ~55 days with manual pump-overs and punchdowns; malolactic fermentation and 18 months aging in large Slavonian oak casks, followed by at least 12 months in bottle before release

Sensory Description:

On the nose, this Riserva unfolds with rich aromas of juicy blackberries and ripe cherries, complemented by notes of leather, graphite, and tobacco. There’s a darker, more aromatic undercurrent of licorice and sweet spices that adds depth and allure. The palate is powerful yet graceful, full-bodied, structured, and layered. Flavors of mocha, cedar, and lavender emerge alongside a creamy texture and velvety, persistent tannins. The wine shows nuance in its floral and herbal accents, balanced by a fresh arc of acidity. The finish resonates with mineral tension and smoky elegance, echoing forest floor and iron, underpinned by a surprising lift of vibrant fruit and seamless freshness.

Winemaker’s Background:

Fattoria Poggerino, nestled in the hills above Radda in Chianti, is a standout among Chianti Classico estates, celebrated for its organic practices and meticulous winemaking. The "Bugialla" Riserva comes from a historic vineyard planted mid-20th century. The team’s dedication to natural fermentation, extended maceration, and aging in large Slavonian oak casks yields wines that are both powerful and deeply expressive of their place, riservas that Demand attention yet promise elegance over time.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at about 60–64 °F (15–18 °C) in a stemmed red wine glass to appreciate the wine’s aromatic complexity and structured tannins. Pair with robust, savory dishes, roasted lamb, wild boar ragu, grilled sausages, or aged pecorino. While this wine is already compelling in 2025, it’s built for aging and will develop more nuance through the early-to-mid 2030s.