Whole Story

Diletta Malenchini and her family have been producing estate grown Chianti varietals at their Villa Medicea (Medici) di Lilliano for many decades.  Their estate, originating in the 11^th century, was established as a lookout tower in the heart of the Chianti Colli Fiorentini region outside Florence.

(Diletta Malenchini on the left, Regina McDuffie, our wine specialist in the Middletown, NJ Whole Foods Market during a recent US tasting tour)

Diletta’s mother Marina is a Marchesa and fine host and cook.  We had the pleasure of her company and cooking in 2008, and the experience was an honor and a pleasure.  We toured the grounds and cellars underneath the estate, and can vouch for the true family presence and authenticity of this small business.

The Malenchini Estate is not just about making and selling wine.  Walking about the olive orchards, appreciating the gardens, smelling the lemons from hundred year old fruit trees, and soaking in the Tuscan views is a remarkable experience we hope all of you can someday see.

Diletta is in charge of making the wines, a Chianti of which was made for us exclusively at Whole Foods Market for our current Summer Top Ten wine promotion.  Made from young sangiovese vines, the wine is fresh, vibrant, full of fruit and good structure.  Goes equally well with Osso Bucco, pizza, or eggplant Parmigiano.

Try a glass of Malenchini “Red Label” Chianti, available only at Whole Foods Market stores (that carry wine), and perhaps it will help you to be transported to this special place in the warm Tuscan sun.