The Cavarchione vineyard was planted in 2010 to a mixture of high-quality Chianti Classico clones of Sangiovese. Located in the commune of Gaiole, it's pounchy and usually a bit beefier than Angela's other crus. Very balsamic, very long, very fresh, expressive and clean, the 2020 Chianti Classico Vigna Cavarchione is stellar. Lush and rich, but with plenty of classic 'Istinism,' the Cavarchione has the potential to be one of the wines of this very young vintage. All the elements come together effortlessly: black cherry, plum, sage, lavender, licorice, and incense develop over time and fill out the layers beautifully. Finishing with a pretty peak of sweet raspberry contrasting with sour cherry, this is an exceptionally inviting Chianti Classic, standing out for its richness, suppleness, and undeniable complexity.
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.