Selvapiana

The Rufina zone is the smallest of all in Chianti (about 600 hectares of vineyard) but also one of the most special. The cool breeze that blows down the Sieve Valley gives the best wines a finesse and definition that few in Chianti Classico can match.

And there is no better producer in Rufina than Selvapiana, which has been in the family of Francesco Giuntini since 1827. Giuntini's son, Federico Giuntini Masseti, runs the property now, situated close to the town of Pontassieve. Federico is the son of the 'fattore' (estate manager) who worked with the Giuntini family all his life. Federico was born on the estate, as was his sister Silvia, who is also involved in running the business. The ancient estate covers 245 hectares of which 54 hectares is vineyard and the rest olive groves and woods. For the most part, the vineyards face west, though their prized Bucerchiale vineyard is southwest facing. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of 150-200 metres above sea level. The soil is mostly clay and limestone. The older vines, 42 years old, were planted at a density of 3,200 per hectare, while the younger vines, which range in age from 7 to 22 years, are planted at 5,500 to 6,200 vines per hectare..