Monte Bernardi Sa'etta Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG

Chianti Classico Riserva Sa'etta DOCG from Monte Bernardi

Sa'etta: Like a lightning bolt from a clear wine sky...

The Chianti Classico Riserva Sa'etta is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. Only those grapes from the vineyard called "Sa'etta" - which means "lightning" - which is a top location on the southern tip of the Conca d'Oro with perfect soils, are used for this wine. The soil here consists of sandstone (Arenaria-Calcare-Pietraforte), which is rich in glittering quartz inclusions that gently reflect the sun's rays. After natural alcoholic fermentation in large oak barrels, the wine is transferred to a combination of German and Austrian oak, where it undergoes malolactic fermentation. The wine then remains in oak barrels for at least 24 months, followed by 12 months of bottle ageing. And the result hits the drinker like a bolt from the blue: you get a complex Sangiovese in your glass that is elegant and balanced from the first sniff to the last sip. If you give it more time, this wine develops a wealth of fruity components, a rich mineral backbone, balanced acidity and persistent, elegant tannins. The "Blitz" can easily withstand 15 years of ageing and more - but promises maximum drinking pleasure right from the start. The Chianti Classico Riserva Sa'etta is certainly one of the shining jewels of Chianti Classico. 

Vino and Olio: products from Tuscany at the highest level

The Monte Bernardi vineyards in the hills south of Panzano are among the "Grand Crus" of Chianti Classico. The wines produced here are among the best in the world. And Monte Bernardi, with its 15 hectares of vineyards, has no need to shy away from international comparison: the many national and international awards and top ratings in renowned wine guides and specialist magazines speak for themselves. The range includes a strong rosé as well as a fruity, 100% Sangiovese Chianti Classico called "Retromarcia", which means "backwards gear", and two Riservas - the Sa'etta, made from 100% Sangiovese, and the "normal" Riserva, which is anything but normal with its composition of Sangiovese and Canaiolo. On the other hand, Michael Schmelzer's professionalism and practised handling of international grape varieties can be seen in the Tzingana - a super Tuscan - and the Tzingarella, a cuvée made from the international grape varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. However, the special terroir is always expressed. And last but not least, Michael produces a spicy olive oil.

Monte Bernardi: 100% biodynamic with 100% heart

The Schmelzer family took over the harvest at Monte Bernardi in 2004. Since then, the commitment has been very clear: all Monte Bernardi wines are made exclusively from grapes from vineyards that are cultivated according to the principles of Rudolf Steiner biodynamics. Michael treats the vines with care, even during the vegetation phase. He relies on the vines' own resistance to pests and diseases. He only provides gentle protective help when necessary. He is also gentle during vinification and ripening. All this makes it clear: Michael Schmelzer loves Sangiovese, Chianti Classico and the distinctiveness of the wines from Panzano. Every decision is made with the aim of producing even better wines that embody the growing region.

Viticulture in Panzano: the best conditions for the best wines in the world

All of these conditions result in red wines that are characterized by their purity and reflect the entire Chianti Classico. The vines grow on stony soil consisting of either slate (Galestro), sandstone (Arenaria-Calcare-Pietraforte) or limestone (Alberese). The perfect south-facing slope at an altitude of 300 to 400 meters above sea level, the surrounding forests and the immediate proximity to the river Pesa - all these factors contribute to the unique microclimate of Monte Bernardi. And thus to the unique wines of Monte Bernardi!

In Italy, in the region Tuscany, in the region Chianti Classico, in Panzano in Chianti

Schmelzer family

Michael Schmelzer

15 ha of which around 11 ha are classified as Chianti Classico

Limestone, sandstone

South

300 - 400 meters above sea level.

3,000 (old systems) - 5,000 vines per ha

Cordon