Chianti Colli Aretini, Mannucci Droandi 2021

An exceptional Chianti at a brilliant price this should be hard to resist as a Whitfield Wines house wine. 

The Mannuccis were landowners in Valdarno at least from the early 19th century; from the 18th century the Droandis were farmers in Carmignano. Today, the estate is family-run. Roberto Mannucci is assisted by his wife, Maria Grazia Mammuccini and nephews Andrea and Matteo Mammuccini.

Each year the team select the best vines and carefully tend them minimising bunches per wine, pruning away excess foliage, and continually culling grapes-to maximise the quality of the fruit that is harvested and soft pressed then controlled fermentation. The wine in oak barrels for a year then in bottle for three months to balance body and aroma. An absolute classic of a Chianti and by far the best I have tasted at this price point. 

In terms of restaurant wines credentials, this Chianti is on the list at the Glasshouse in London.