2022 Querciabella “Batàr”, Toscana IGT, Tuscany, Italy

ABOUT THE WINE

Batàr is an equal blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco from Ruffoli, above Greve in Chianti. For the 2022, Chardonnay comes from the south-facing Casaocci Sud and Il Pallonaio vineyards, at approximately 350 and 600 meters. Pinot Bianco grows in cooler, north-facing plots around 400 meters. Galestro, sandstone, clay and schist give the blend a range of sites from which to build both precision and texture.

A hot, dry summer was relieved by August rain, and the white-grape harvest ran from August 29 to September 13. The separate lots were vinified in French oak barriques and matured on their lees for more than nine months, with minimal stirring and 20% new oak. Lees contact contributes breadth, while the restrained handling keeps the wine’s fresh character in focus.

Beyond its citrus and pear fruit, the 2022 develops almond, saffron and ginger accents, with wet-stone and saline notes providing definition. Its combination of texture and freshness suits saffron risotto, scallops with lemon butter, or a savory mushroom tart.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Giuseppe “Pepito” Castiglioni founded Querciabella in 1974 after acquiring a small estate in Ruffoli. His love of Sangiovese and the great wines of other regions shaped a range that combines Chianti Classico with individual Tuscan blends, including Batàr, first made in 1988.

Organic farming has been integral to the estate since 1988. Under Sebastiano Cossia Castiglioni, the approach developed through biodynamic practices and, from 2010, an entirely plant-based system. Diverse cover crops help nourish soils and sustain life between the vines, while animal-derived materials are excluded from production. The estate’s history is now continued by Mita Castiglioni, maintaining the family’s commitment to distinctive wines and environmental care.