Cavaliere d'Oro Riserva Chianti Classico 2018
Medium-to-full-bodied dry red wine styled in a traditional yet approachable Tuscan tradition. · Cavaliere d'Oro (formerly Castello di Gabbiano), located in the heart of Tuscany and owned by Treasury Wine Estates. It holds a well-regarded commercial and premium tier standing globally, combining historic Tuscan estate winemaking with modern scale.
Vintage: 2018, a generally warm and balanced growing season in Tuscany that produced healthy, ripe grapes with classic structural balance.
Type
Medium-to-full-bodied dry red wine styled in a traditional yet approachable Tuscan tradition.
Producer
Cavaliere d'Oro (formerly Castello di Gabbiano), located in the heart of Tuscany and owned by Treasury Wine Estates. It holds a well-regarded commercial and premium tier standing globally, combining historic Tuscan estate winemaking with modern scale.
Country
Italy, an Old World wine powerhouse known for its strict DOCG/DOC classifications, highly diverse native grape varieties, and immense contribution to global wine heritage.
Vintage
2018, a generally warm and balanced growing season in Tuscany that produced healthy, ripe grapes with classic structural balance.
Region & Appellation
Tuscany, Chianti Classico DOCG
Grape Varieties
Primarily Sangiovese, blended with complementary traditional varieties like Colorino or Merlot as permitted by Chianti Classico regulations.
Color & Appearance
Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, medium-deep intensity, clear, with moderate tears clinging to the glass.
Aroma Profile
Intense aromas of ripe red cherries, wild berries, subtle earthy forest floor, sweet tobacco, and integrated vanilla spice.
Tasting Notes
A harmonious palate opening with vibrant sour cherry fruit, evolving into savory leather and spice notes, finishing with polished, lingering tannins and refreshing acidity.
Flavor Profile
Ripe red cherry, red plum, dried herbs, hints of balsamic, earthiness, and subtle oak-derived vanilla and clove.
Body & Texture
Medium-plus body with a silky yet structured mouthfeel, balanced extract, and vibrant tactile energy.
Acidity & Tannins
High, food-friendly acidity paired with fine-grained, firm, yet approachable tannins that provide excellent structural integrity.
Sweetness Level
Bone dry with negligible residual sugar, balanced entirely by bright acidity and fruit extract.
Alcohol Content
Around 13.5% to 14.0% ABV, providing moderate warmth that integrates seamlessly with the wine's structure.
Aging & Oak
Aged in a combination of traditional large oak casks and smaller French oak barrels for over 24 months, including bottle refinement before release.
Food Pairings
Classic Tuscan pairings including Florentine steak, wild boar ragu, lasagna, roasted lamb, and aged pecorino cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at 16-18°C in a standard Bordeaux or Chianti glass. Decanting for 30 to 45 minutes will help open up the aromatics.
Price Range
Approximately $20 to $30 USD, representing very good value for a Chianti Classico Riserva.
Quality Assessment
Estimated 89-91 points, placing it securely in the premium tier with consistent quality across vintages.
Production Methods
Traditional destemming and crushing, temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks, followed by extended maceration and oak aging.
Terroir
Galestro (schistous clay) and alberese (limestone) soils on hillside vineyards in Chianti Classico, offering excellent drainage and mineral expression.
History & Heritage
Castello di Gabbiano dates its roots back to the 12th century, with wine production documented since the Renaissance under noble Florentine families.
Interesting Facts
The label prominently features the golden knight ('Cavaliere d'Oro'), a nod to historical Tuscan knights and the estate's heritage.
Cellaring Potential
Drinking exceptionally well now through 2026-2028, offering tertiary development if stored in cool, dark conditions.
Similar Wines
Antinori Peppoli Chianti Classico, Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico, and Ruffino Riserva Ducale.