The Istine Chiantis from the heralded Oliver McCrum import portfolio have long been some of our favorite Tuscan expressions here at Mission, yet we’ve never had any problem securing more when needed.
That all changed two weeks ago when the New York Times published a widely-read look at the new era of female empowerment in the Italian wine industry with Istine’s Angela Fronti leading the charge.
Due to tens of thousands of reader requests from all over the country, the Istine wines are selling out nationwide and getting our hands on more has proven more difficult than we anticipated. Just the standard Chianti Classico is now short in supply, and the single vineyard expressions are like allocated Bourbons at this point.
Why the huge buzz? It’s not just the excitement of a new feminine movement in an industry long dominated by male nepotism, the Istine wines are just flat out amazing. Angela’s acute awareness of her vineyards, coupled with her restraint in the cellar allow for Sangiovese-based wines that express not just a sense of place, but a sense of purpose.
As the New York Times piece spells out: “Women long ago demonstrated remarkable abilities in wine. But those allowed to take over family enterprises were historically the exceptions.” Now, “women like Ms. Fronti are taking charge of family businesses and pushing them to new and unexpected heights.”
Whether you’re interested in the new generation of winemakers in Chianti, or just looking for a fantastic red wine for dinner tonight (one that won’t be in stock for very long, to boot), check out these glowing reviews for the Istine wines. And act fast. As Antonio Galloni from Vinous writes: “The term “up and coming” won't apply too much longer, as Fronti is quickly establishing herself as a top grower and winemaker.”
2021 Istine Chianti Classico $29.99 (Elsewhere SOLD OUT)
92 POINTS: VINOUS - Just bottled, the 2021 Chianti Classico captures all the energy of the year in its bright, red-toned fruit. Blood orange, mint, white pepper and vibrant acids lend notable energy to a Chianti Classico that sizzles with tension. There's plenty of fruit to back that all up. Bright saline notes extend the finish beautifully. Angela Fronti’s 2021s are impressive, their recent bottling notwithstanding. Istine is a relatively new estate, but the family has a distinguished history in Chianti Classico. The wines are made in a small warehouse space in Radda. Readers should seek out these wines, as they capture all of the energy and enthusiasm of the younger generation in Chianti Classico.
91 POINTS: WINE SPECTATOR - A vivid, linear red, evoking black cherry, blackberry, licorice and spice flavors. Rich and dense, with a lively structure, this ends with generous fruit and spice notes. Drink now through 2028.
2020 Istine Vigne Istine Chianti Classico $39.95 (Elsewhere SOLD OUT)
94 POINTS: VINOUS - The 2020 Chianti Classico Vigna Istine is a wine of total understatement and class. The translucent finesse of Radda comes through loud and clear. Crushed rocks, mint, chalk and white pepper add a striking top register of brilliance throughout. The 2020 is flat out gorgeous. Angela Fronti turned out another set of stellar wines in 2020. Her Chianti Classicos show remarkable expression of site and nuance, in other words, all the best Sangiovese has to offer. These are special wines from one of the region's most dynamic, up and coming producers. The term “up and coming” won't apply too much longer, as Fronti is quickly establishing herself as a top grower and winemaker.
92 POINTS: WINE SPECTATOR - This red is infused with fresh cherry, strawberry, rose hip and iron flavors aligned to a streamlined profile. Subtle, yet persists on the finish, delivering harmony and the potential to evolve another decade, maybe two. Decant now. Drink now through 2040.
2020 Istine Casanova dell’Aia Chianti Classico $44.99 (Elsewhere SOLD OUT)
95 POINTS: VINOUS - The 2020 Chianti Classico Vigna Casanova dell'Aia shows a dark, richer side of Sangiovese from Radda. Black cherry, sage, lavender, menthol, licorice and tobacco all meld together. A wine of presence and real stature, the Casanova dell'Aia is fabulous. All it needs is time to soften a bit
94 POINTS: WINE SPECTATOR - A succulent red highlighted by beautifully defined cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavors. Solidly built, suggesting this will develop further. Boasts excellent balance, with leafy underbrush and wild herb notes on the long finish. Best from 2025 through 2042.