Santa Cristina was originally introduced in 1946 as a Chianti Classico by Piero Antinori's father, Niccolò. However, with the passage of the 1984 DOCG laws - spearheaded by Piero Antinori- requiring lower vineyard yields, Chianti Classico grapes became so complex and rich that they required more aging than this fruity fresh wine should have to maintain its style and character. Therefore, with the 1987 vintage Santa Cristina moved away from the Chianti Classico designation, and with the 1994 vintage Antinori began including 10% Merlot to the blend to add soft, open fruit nuances to the wine.

Santa Cristina is probably Antinori's absolute best value Tuscan red. Grown on their hillside estate vineyard in Cortona, near Montalcino, this blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah with a hint of oak aging is a prime example of their ability to combine long standing traditions with dynamic innovation. The Wine Spectator said "This rich version boasts plum and pomegranate flavors, with spice accents. Tightens up on the moderate finish. 

Vineyard: High on a Tuscan hillside, not far from Siena and Perugia, sits the historic town of Cortona. A vast plain extends on one side and on the other, the hill and village. This is the captivating panorama surrounding the Santa Cristina winery, established in 2006 to strengthen and renew the tradition of crafting its eponymous wine, over 70 years after its first vintage.

Vinification: Each grape variety was fermented separately. After the grapes were destemmed and gently crushed, maceration on the skins took place in stainless steel vats over a period of approximately one week. During this phase, the wine completed alcoholic fermentation at a controlled temperature that did not exceed 25°C. Malolactic fermentation was completed by fall and the wine was aged for about 4 months

Tasting notes: Ruby red in color with purplish hues. Its nose offers pleasant, intense fruity aromas of cherries and floral notes of violets that merge with notes of vanilla and coffee. On the palate it is supple and mouth filling with a fruity aftertaste.

Paired with: As with its cousin Chianti, it’s broadly versatile with a range of pasta, pizza, and red meat. A traditional wood-fired pizza Margherita with a wood-oven charred breadlike crust and discreet toppings of tomato sauce, fior de latte, and snipped fresh basil leaves served it well.

Awards

Wine Spectator – Top 10 Elegant Reds 2017 – Santa Cristina IGT 2015

Wine Spectator – 90/100 – Santa Cristina IGT 2016

James Suckling – 90/100 – Santa Cristina IGT 2015