Imagine the sun-dappled hills of Tuscany, rows of ancient vineyards, and a wine heritage steeped in centuries-old traditions. This is the world of Nipozzano Riserva, a celebrated Chianti Rufina wine from the Frescobaldi family. Renowned for its exceptional quality, elegance, and depth, Nipozzano Riserva is more than just a bottle of wine; it’s a timeless Italian classic, a true connoisseur's choice, and a gateway to the soul of Tuscany.

Tuscany: A Land of Beauty, Culture, & Winemaking

Tuscany, the enchanting region in central Italy, is known for its rolling landscapes, historical towns, and rich cultural heritage. The roots of Tuscan winemaking stretch back to the time of the Etruscans, an ancient civilization that settled in the region around the 8th century BC. These early inhabitants cultivated grapevines and crafted the first Tuscan wines, recognizing the land’s prolific terroir. With the arrival of the Romans, the art of winemaking in Tuscany further developed, and vineyards became a common sight across the region. By the Middle Ages, Tuscany's wine production had become highly regarded throughout Europe. Nobles and clergy alike treasured the wines produced here, and local families began establishing estates that continue producing wine today.

In the 12th century, Florence and Siena emerged as economic and cultural hubs and Tuscany's winemaking families gained significant influence. Florence became one of the primary trade centers for wine.



One of the most famous Tuscan wine families, the Frescobaldi’s, trace their winemaking heritage back over 700 years. The Frescobaldi family played an instrumental role in shaping Tuscan winemaking traditions and even supplied wine to the English court and the Pope in the Renaissance. This legacy lives on in wines like Nipozzano Riserva, which draws on centuries of expertise, tradition, and dedication. 

The Chianti Region: Understanding the Appellations & the Chianti Rufina Difference

The Chianti region, synonymous with Tuscan wine, is divided into several sub-zones, each with its own unique characteristics. While Chianti Classico is the most widely known appellation, Chianti Rufina holds a special place as one of the smallest and most distinctive sub-regions.

We are talking about 2,400 acres of vineyards for the whole appellation.

Located northeast of Florence in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains, Chianti Rufina’s high altitude and cooler climate set it apart from other parts of Chianti, resulting in wines with remarkable freshness, structure, and longevity. Chianti Rufina’s terroir is ideal for the cultivation of the Sangiovese grape, the primary varietal in Nipozzano Riserva. For Chianti DOCG wines, including those from the Rufina subregion, at least 70% of the blend must be Sangiovese. Some producers, including Frescobaldi for Nipozzano Riserva, often use even higher proportions of it to showcase the grape’s character. The remaining percentage can include other red grape varieties such as Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.



The combination of rich, clay-limestone soils and a balanced climate fosters slow grape maturation, allowing for the development of complex flavors and higher acidity. This natural acidity enhances the wine’s aging potential and contributes to the wine’s distinctive profile: vibrant fruit flavors balanced by earthy undertones and spicy, floral notes. While Chianti Classico wines are known for their boldness, Chianti Rufina wines, including Nipozzano Riserva, are often described as more refined, with softer tannins and a more layered, nuanced profile. This elegance and depth make Nipozzano Riserva a unique expression of the Chianti Rufina appellation and a standout among Tuscan wines. 

Nipozzano Riserva: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship & Tradition

Nipozzano Riserva is produced on the historic Nipozzano estate, which has been owned by the Frescobaldi family since 1855. Nestled within the heart of Chianti Rufina, the Nipozzano estate has been carefully cultivated and nurtured over generations. Its name, meaning “without a well,” hints at the region’s scarcity of water, a factor that adds to the intensity and concentration of the grapes grown here.

The estate’s vineyards, some of which are over 50 years old, are planted at altitudes ranging from 250 to 400 meters, ensuring optimal sun exposure and temperature variations. This exquisite wine is crafted predominantly from Sangiovese, complemented by small amounts of other traditional grape varieties, including Malvasia Nera, Colorino, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are hand-harvested to ensure quality and carefully selected to create a wine embodying the land's richness and character. After vinification, Nipozzano Riserva is aged for a minimum of six months in oak barrels (and up to 24 months), allowing the wine to develop a beautiful complexity and a well-rounded, harmonious structure.



The result is a Chianti Rufina DOCG with layers of flavor, from red and black fruit to subtle hints of spice, tobacco, and balsamic notes. The extended aging also lends the wine smooth tannins and a remarkable depth, making each glass an experience of Tuscany’s history and soul.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The versatility and structure of Nipozzano Riserva make it a perfect match for a range of Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Here are some pairing ideas that will elevate your experience:

• Roasted Meats: Try pairing with roasted lamb, beef, or pork to complement the wine’s richness and earthy notes.

• Pasta with Rich Sauces: Chianti Rufina’s acidity balances beautifully with tomato-based pasta dishes, such as lasagna Bolognese or pappardelle with ragu.

• Aged Cheeses: Aged Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or Asiago cheese pairs beautifully with Nipozzano Riserva, enhancing the wine’s complex flavors and smooth tannins.

• Mushroom Dishes: The wine's earthy notes make it a great companion to mushroom risottos or truffle-infused dishes. 

The Legacy of Frescobaldi & the Future of Nipozzano Riserva

The Frescobaldi family’s dedication to producing wines of exceptional quality is evident in every bottle of Nipozzano Riserva. For over thirty generations, the Frescobaldi's have cultivated a profound understanding of their land, maintaining a commitment to sustainability and tradition. Today, the family continues to innovate while honoring the techniques that have defined their legacy.



In recent years, Frescobaldi has also championed initiatives in sustainable viticulture, implementing practices that respect the environment and preserve the health of the land for future generations.

Nipozzano Riserva is crafted with a deep respect for the natural rhythms of the vineyards, ensuring that the wines remain an authentic expression of their terroir. 

Nipozzano Riserva Should Be on Your Table

As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to explore Tuscany's warmth, history, and flavor through Nipozzano Riserva. This Chianti Rufina DOCG is not only a celebration of Italian winemaking but also a gift of tradition that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner, looking for the perfect gift for a wine lover, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, Nipozzano Riserva adds a touch of timeless elegance to any occasion. 

Wine Spectator rated 91 points - “Black cherry and blackberry fruit are shaded by notes of iron and earth, plus a hint of orange peel. This ripe and lively red is balanced, ending with a light dusting of tannins.”

James Suckling Rated 92 points - “A well-rounded, balanced, and seductive riserva with notes of red berries, cherries, Mediterranean herbs, and mild spices on the nose, following through to a medium body with fine tannins. Focused and textured with a succulent finish.”

Frescobaldi’s Nipozzano Riserva 2021 Chianti Rufina

Because it has such a good body and mouthfeel, if this was a blind tasting, we would have guessed the 2021 Nipozzano to be more a super Tuscan than a Chianti Rufina. This Chianti boasts a deep, gorgeous, rich hue with a soft glove leather texture, making it a perfect Winter Solstice Chianti and a great food wine. Its aromas and flavors of fruits, nuts, and spices are driven by juicy raspberry, cinnamon stick, and chestnut, with notes of fresh Oregano, fennel, and sweet Italian sausage adding exuberance and dimension.

- The Yankee Spirits Wine Team

Regular Price: $17.99

*Sale price is on 6 or more bottle purchase

Wine is packed in a 12-bottle case

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—Yankee Spirits Wine Team

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