The Casanova dell’Aia vineyard is close to the village of Radda itself and was planted entirely to Sangiovese in 2002. The 2021 is a perfect example of Radda, with delicate aromas of crushed flowers, sweet red berries, mint, chalk, and white pepper. It is the most graceful, ethereal wine in the Istine collection – but still playful in its sheer vibrancy – with silky tannins, fresh acidity, and herbaceous and tart undertones that add complexity and length. Closing with an elegant, lingering finish, this is totally classic and poised, and promises great aging potential.
Istine only works with autochthonous varieties, so it's 100% Sangiovese with their Chiantis, and has been certified organic since 2016. The wines are aged the old-fashioned way, in large 20hl botti grandi of neutral oak, after a prolonged skin maceration that can last as long as six weeks. Production is small - only about 60-70,000 bottles and the family does not envision expanding much. Their 26 hectares of galestro (rocky schist) and alberese (sandstone) are some of the highest-elevation vineyards around: some 400-600 meters above sea level, which exactly suits their pure, linear aesthetic.