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Clantenova: the multicultural soul of Chianti

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Clantenova

June 5, 2025

On June 5, 2025

As featured in WineTales Magazine

Nestled among the gentle curves of the Tuscan hills, not far from Florence, lies Clantenova, a place that embodies not only the beauty of Chianti but also the unique history of a family that has woven together cultures, generations, and passions.

Clantenova is more than just an organic agritourism; it’s a crossroads of cultures, a family story that intertwines authentic Tuscany with the elegant influences of Trentino-Alto Adige and the ancient roots of Lebanon. Henry and Alex Bakhos, father and son, are the current custodians of this profound agricultural and cultural heritage, transformed into characterful wines that speak the language of the territory with surprising accents.

Table of Contents

The Roots of a Passion

The history of the Bakhos family is deeply rooted in the Tuscan countryside, where viticulture has been a part of daily life for centuries. What makes the Clantenova project unique is its multicultural background. Alex’s maternal grandmother hailed from Trentino-Alto Adige, bringing with her a refined gastronomic heritage and a rigorous approach to land management.

The paternal grandfather, on the other hand, was Lebanese, and with him came not only the surname “Bakhos” – derived from Bacchus, the Roman god of agriculture and wine – but also a spiritual and symbolic vision of wine as a sacred element, a connection between humankind and nature.

This fusion of identities, embracing the Mediterranean, the Alps, and central Italy, is evident throughout the company: in the architectural details of the agritourism, in the environmentally respectful agricultural philosophy, and above all, in the wines, which tell this story with strength and elegance.

Respect for the Land: The Organic Choice

Clantenova is a certified organic company, with vineyards cultivated using sustainable agricultural practices, free from herbicides and aggressive chemicals.

The commitment to organic farming is not merely a trend but a declaration of respect for the soil, plants, and future generations. The Chianti climate, with its temperature variations, galestro-rich soil, and natural ventilation, favors the production of expressive wines that combine structure and drinkability.

The Cellar: Craftsmanship and Time

Clantenova’s production philosophy prioritizes quality over quantity. Fermentations occur slowly, with long macerations on the skins to extract the best from each varietal.

Aging takes place in selected French oak barrels, some of which house the wines for several years. Time is considered an essential ingredient, not an adversary; every bottle is released to the market only when it is truly ready.

The Labels: Identity and Character

A tasting at Clantenova introduces three red wines that represent the three souls of the company: the tradition of Chianti, the softness of a Superiore, and the innovation of a Super Tuscan.

Chianti Classico DOCG 2022: Made from 100% Sangiovese, this wine embodies the essence of the denomination. Fermentation lasts 22 days, followed by 18 months of aging in French oak barrels. The nose offers intense notes of ripe cherries, leather, tobacco, and a balsamic hint of cedar. On the palate, it is full-bodied with well-integrated tannins and a long, elegant finish. Recommended pairings include Florentine steak, grilled meats, aged Parmesan, and pici with ragu.
Chianti Superiore DOCG 2021: A blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot. After fermentation, the wine rests for six months in cement tanks and one year in French oak barrels. The result is an an elegant red with aromas of red cherries, plums, sweet spices, and a captivating softness. It pairs perfectly with roast meats, mushroom risotto, aged pecorino, or baked pasta dishes.
IGT Toscana Rosso – Super Toscan 2020: This wine expresses the winery’s most creative vein, composed of 60% Sangiovese, 20% Syrah, and 20% Gamay. Aging lasts 36 months in French oak, imparting complexity and depth. The nose reveals blackberries, black cherries, black pepper, chocolate, and espresso. On the palate, it is powerful, structured, with bold tannins and a long, enveloping finish. Ideal with game, braised meats, beef stews, ribs, or intense cheeses like Tuscan Pecorino and well-aged Parmesan.

A Recognition that Rewards Dedication

In 2025, Clantenova received significant recognition from the sommeliers of the Vinodabere magazine during the Chianti Classico Collection. This award not only celebrates the quality of their wines but also the authentic and transparent approach of this family, who have chosen to produce wines in harmony with their history, without compromise.

Chianti and the Myth of the Black Rooster (Gallo Nero)

Clantenova proudly participates in the history of Chianti Classico, one of the oldest and most renowned denominations worldwide. The symbol of this DOCG is the Black Rooster (Gallo Nero), originating from a medieval legend. During the wars between Florence and Siena, it was decided to establish the borders of Chianti by having two knights ride from their respective cities at the crowing of a rooster. The Florentine black rooster, kept fasting for days, crowed before dawn, allowing the Florentine knight to depart earlier and claim more territory. Today, this rooster symbolizes authenticity and pride and is found on the most representative bottles of the area.

Authentic Hospitality

Visiting Clantenova means immersing yourself in a familiar and welcoming atmosphere. The agritourism offers rooms with vineyard views, homemade breakfasts, and the opportunity to participate in guided tastings and typical Tuscan lunches, as well as seasonal events. Every visit is a chance to connect directly with those who truly produce the wine, from the vineyard to the bottle.

Clantenova is more than a winery; it is a place where family history merges with agricultural vocation, where every bottle tells a story of identity, hard work, and love for the land. In a time when authenticity is a rare value, Clantenova naturally embodies it, offering not only excellent wines but a true human experience.