Portable Istine, Toscana Merlot '550' 2020 - Today Only [Ox2sH0kt]

Variety: Merlot

Though this a fairly recent property coming out of Chianti, Istine’s reputation has quickly risen to the top of the Sangiovese playing field. The producer has even been likened to that of Montevertine, the most sought after Chianti Classico producer. Istine is located in the commune of Radda along with fellow Chianti producers Montevertine and Carleone. Istine is new to the scene, but the wines are quietly gaining a reputation for consistency and approachability. Their property is perched on a high hill overlooking both Radda and Panzano, a fitting location for a newer venture seeing the potential terrain before them.

Although primarily a Sangiovese producer, the vineyard designated '550', based on its elevation site in meters, is all Merlot. The cool climate vineyard ripens slowly so it is harvested after the Sangiovese. It is macerated for 30 days and fermented in concrete for 15 days. Aged for 15 months in toasted tonneaux.