THE PREEMINENCE OF CHIANTI CLASSICO
Chianti can be produced in a vast geographical area that spans several Tuscan provinces. However, the most exceptional wines are undoubtedly crafted within the "Chianti Classico" area. This hilly landscape, stretching between Florence and Siena, has long been considered the cradle of the region's finest wines. Yet, few realize that these same hills inspired the ideal of noble country living celebrated by ancient Roman poets. The deep-rooted connection between landscape, architecture, and agriculture here is centuries old, with the vine symbolizing the essential link binding this remarkably diverse territory.
Trying to define the nuances each soil, exposure, and tradition can give to Chianti Classico is a fascinating but complex task, made even more challenging by the flexibility of the region's winemaking regulations. While other Tuscan areas focus on single-varietal expressions, Chianti Classico stands apart for its creative blending—uniting Sangiovese with indigenous grapes like Canaiolo and Colorino, or international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. This creative freedom results in a stunning spectrum of styles, offering wine lovers across the world a rich diversity of flavors, aromas, and experiences.
NEW PHILOSOPHIES, NEW GOALS
The cornerstone of Chianti Classico production is that Sangiovese must remain the primary grape (at least 80%), a rule that shapes the identity of these wines. Rocca delle Macìe, a distinguished family-run estate, has never paused in its quest for excellence, embracing both winemaking and hospitality with passion and vision.
Over the past two decades, Rocca delle Macìe has pressed ahead with clear goals, guided by careful analysis and strategic planning. This commitment has paid dividends, yielding both economic and environmental gains. Following this roadmap, Rocca delle Macìe relaunched its flagship Sergioveto and Roccato wines with the 2015 vintage. Though these wines take separate paths—one rooted in tradition, the other in innovation—they are united by their deep connection to the Chianti region.
SERGIOVETO (100% SANGIOVESE)
Sergioveto, a wine named by Italo Zingarelli for his son Sergio (Ser Gioveto, born in 1985), is a tribute to the Sangiovese grape’s greatness. This varietal reaches new heights in Tuscany, and the Zingarelli family skillfully highlights its best qualities, producing wines brimming with the character of Tuscan Sangiovese.
The family focuses exclusively on the Sangiovese grape (locally called Sangioveto) from their Pian della Casina vineyard, with only a small portion allotted to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is successfully labeled as a Chianti Classico Riserva selection.
This Chianti visually tells the story of orderly vineyard rows thriving on calcareous, mineral-rich slopes. Sergioveto is a wine of volume and nuance, vigorous in its vibrant structure. It’s known for its floral and fruity notes, a lively acidity, and impressive depth. Simply put, Sergioveto is a Tuscan wine that, in its purest form, reveals the true nature of Sangiovese—nothing more, nothing less.
ROCCATO (100% CABERNET SAUVIGNON)
Twenty years ago, conversations about native grape varieties were rare, as imported varieties often took center stage—sometimes overshadowing the unique qualities of Tuscany’s own grapes. Rocca delle Macìe’s Roccato, first produced in 1988, reasserts the powerful spirit and adaptability of the region.
Roccato is made from pure Cabernet Sauvignon grown in the single Poggio alle Pecchie vineyard, now crafted entirely without Sangiovese. This bold approach demonstrates how certain grapes can thrive and express unique character even far from their native lands. Roccato follows the Supertuscan philosophy: low yields, perfectly ripe grapes, temperature-controlled fermentation, barrel aging, and bottle refinement. The result is a wine with the structure and personality of Chianti Classico, yet with an international flair—showcasing the best of both worlds.
Want to discover more about the enchanting Rocca delle Macìe estate? Read Francesca Ciancio’s feature on the Zingarelli family’s Borgo di Fizzano, a true Tuscan treasure. Explore the Rocca delle Macìe producer page and browse our favorite Rocca delle Macìe wines. There’s always more to learn, taste, and experience!
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