Marco Ricasoli manages Rocca di Montegrossi, a vast estate situated in Monti in Chianti, to the south of Gaiole, encompassing 100 hectares. The estate is split into 20 hectares each of vineyards and olive groves, with the rest comprised of woodland. The soil is predominantly limestone, enriched with marlstone, sand, and clay. The farming has adhered to organic practices since 2006.
Marco’s viticulture is enhanced by the expertise of consultants Stefano Dini and Dario Leccatelli. A notable aspect of Montegrossi is their focus on the rare Pugnitello grape, which they blend with Canalaio for their Chianti Classico, and with Cabernet Sauvignon to craft a special IGT wine available only in magnum format. Pugnitello is scarcely grown, occupying just 50 hectares across Tuscany, due to its low yield, which limits its popularity.
Rocca di Montegrossi Rosato 2022 IGT Toscana
This wine features 13% alcohol and offers a harmonious blend of weight and balance. Its flavor profile is dry and mineral-rich, with lively cherry and pear notes complemented by hints of citrus. The wine is well-structured, with notable acidity and a touch of salinity, presenting a striking and vivid style. Rating: 91/100.
Rocca di Montegrossi Chianti Classico 2021
Matured for 11 months in concrete vats and large barrels, this wine showcases a fresh, pure, and direct profile. Its linear qualities frame the bright red cherry and berry flavors beautifully. The wine not only boasts breathtaking purity and robust acidity but also a well-balanced body with chalky, mineral complexities. It also shows great aging potential. Rating: 94/100.
Rocca di Montegrossi Chianti Classico Vigneto San Marcellino Gran Selezione 2018
A blend of Sangiovese (90%) and Pugnitello (10%), matured for 25 months in barrique and tonneaux with 20% of the oak being new. The alcohol level is at 15%. This wine showcases a dense fruit profile underpinned by firm structure. It displays a modern appeal with lively notes of raspberry and cherry, complemented by integrated spicy oak nuances, finishing with a warming touch. This ambitious rendition of Chianti Classico offers abundant fruit, oak, and structural elements. Its evolution promises intrigue, likely garnering varied opinions. Rated 94/100.
Rocca di Montegrossi Geremia IGT Toscana 2018
With an alcohol content of 14.5%, this wine is predominantly Merlot (80%) with Cabernet Sauvignon (20%), aged in barriques and tonneaux with 10% new oak. The wine exudes freshness and traditional charm, presenting vibrant red cherry and blackcurrant flavours, complemented by seamlessly integrated oak and nuanced gravelly, chalky characteristics. It features a robust tannic structure, bright acidity, and holds potential for extended aging. Rated 95/100.
Rocca di Montegrossi Ridolfo 2017 IGT Toscana (magnum)
Another 14.5% alcohol offering, this vintage constitutes an equal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Pugniatello, limited to 1567 magnums and matured for 24 months in tonneaux. The wine is intensely concentrated with a robust tannic backbone, showcasing remarkable tension and a vibrant profile of black cherry and blackcurrant fruits. Characterized by its tannic density, it also offers refreshing acidity. Rated 96/100.
Rocca di Montegrossi Vinsanto del Chianti Classico 2013
Distinctly processed without the use of fruit racks or chains, instead utilizing nets on rails, integrating selective botrytis while avoiding undesirable molds. Aged for 8 years in barrels composed of cherry, mulberry, and oak wood staves. The resultant wine is light brown with a golden rim, emitting sweet aromas of marmalade and raisin, with a hint of spice. It delivers a lush, rich, and densely concentrated palate with a raisiny finish. Its richness is counterbalanced by slight oxidation and softness. Rated 93/100.