In this very unusual year, the Gallo Nero territory has not – luckily – experienced extreme weather conditions, such as those that have taken place in other regions of Italy.
A fairly cool spring was followed by a long, hot summer, with good day-night temperature variation (the minimum temperatures were quite moderate in both July and August) allowing the grapes to complete their maturation perfectly. Also important was the absence of water shortage, thanks to rain in June and September.
All these factors are prerequisites for another excellent year for Chianti Classico wine, with great structure and balance.
As far as production quantities are concerned, a provisional estimate shows a dip of at least 10% compared to 2019: a natural reduction mainly linked to the cold nights in early April which impacted the budding stage of the vines.
“Despite the trend of recent years, when the freak weather conditions have taken us by surprise, the Sangiovese grape in Chianti Classico is proving increasingly able to adapt to climate changes, compared to other, more precocious varieties.” – comments Giovanni Manetti, Chairman of the Chianti Classico Consortium. “Due to the pandemic, the lack of foreign trips and other representation commitments (such as participation in wine sector fairs and promotional events), this year, more than ever, the Chianti Classico winegrowers have been able to focus on productive aspects and devote more time to caring for the vineyards. All Gallo Nero winegrowers have a shared aim, to produce the best wine of our career: may this be the memory we keep in a few years’ time when we open the outstanding 2020 vintage bottles.”