Georgeta Perhald, Rocca delle Macie, Castellina in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy

We were delighted to welcome Georgeta to Ballymaloe where she spoke about  Rocca delle Macie, and the students tasted  a ‘Super-Tuscan’, Ser Gioveto 2001.

Rocca delle Macie’sprincipal cellar is in the Chianti Classico area close to Siena and Florence, the historic and artistic heart of Tuscany. The founder, Italo Zingarelli purchased a 14th-century village called “Macìe”, and the nearby Saint Alphonso’s Farm, in the area of Castellina in Chianti in 1973. The buildings underwent a large-scale restoration process, including a modernization of the existing cellars and the addition of brand new cellars, which have been continuously updated ever since. Thus, Rocca delle Macìe was born.Rocca delle Macie is a young winery indeed, especially set alongside the centuries old history of so many of the famous wineries in the Chianti area. Nevertheless, in less than 30 years it has forged a reputation throughout the wine world as one of Chianti’s most highly regarded estates.

Beginning in the vineyard, selective herbicide methods are used to respect the environment and the workers. Fertilization is completely organic. In addition to producing extraordinary wines, they produce cold pressed olive oil and honey.

They have established a tradition of holding events, notably the annual Opera Singing competition launched in 1991 which attracts the talents of up-and-coming singers from around the world. Other events supported by the winery include bike races, car rallies as well as scientific and culinary seminars.
Ser Gioveto 2001 -  This wine is produced only in years of exceptional vintage. Rather than aging in large barrels, the wine spends 9 to 12 months in smaller 50 gallon French oak barriques, from the Allier region, and is then refined for at least 9 months in the bottle.Grape: 100% Sangiovese, carefully selected.Tasting- Intense ruby red with reflections of garnet. Intense, ample bouquet, with hints of aged berries and a balanced bouquet of toasted aromas acquired from the wood of the barriques. Palate is warm, robust, and well balanced with an element of tannin.Serving- Can be stored for long periods and should rest horizontally in a dark area at cellar conditions. Serve at room temperature not less than 65°F. It pairs beautifully with roasted red meats, wild game and dry cheeses.
Ph. +39 0577 732236
Fax +39 0577 743150
www.roccadellemacie.com
vendita.diretta@roccadellemacie.com
Our thanks to Conor O’Brien of James Nicholson Wine Merchant for arranging this visit. www.jnwine.com
Photo attached – Georgeta Perhald, Conor O’Brien, Rachel, Pamd and Colm