Tasting Notes continued...
Famiglia Cecchi
Storia di Famiglia
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Aromas of pale blue florals consisting of violet and Iris, distant clove, white pepper and candied orange peel. Redcurrant, pomegranate, plum, distant damp cigar box, dark chocolate and menthol herbs. Cool on the palate, agile and juicy, crunchy tannins vie with wry acidity. Edgy and youthful. Medium length on the close.
Points 92 TW
Famiglia Cecchi
Villa Cerna
Primocolle
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium purple in colour with pink undertones. Aromas of meadow florals, subtle menthol nuances, cherry and essence of citrus. Red cherry, redcurrant, blackberry, pomegranate, graphite, fennel pollen and candied orange peel. Cool entry, agile, juicy and clearly linear. Finely formed and attractive for the vintage.
Points 93 TW
Famiglia Cecchi
Villa Cerna
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020
Medium garnet red in colour with a pale amber rim. Heady aromas of honeysuckle, broom and wisteria, warm berry fruits, sweet tobacco and candied orange peel. Bing cherry, plum, loganberry, clove, star anise, eucalyptus and liquorice. Fresh nuances appear on mid palate, citrusy character, layered minerality. Balanced. Articulated on the finish.
Points 91 TW
Famiglia Cecchi
Valore di Famiglia
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2020
Pale garnet red in colour with pink undertones. Subtle aromas of berry fruit, fig and white florals with a whiff of cedar. Redcurrant, cranberry, plum, almond and dry pithy orange peel, distant cinnamon and oaky vanilla. Savoury. Lightly textured. Zingy acidity. Fresh. Formidabile tannins still holding up the structure profile. Broad juicy finish.
Points 92 TW
Famiglia Cecchi
Villa Rosa
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2020
Pale garnet red in colour with pink highlights. Aromas of orange zest, damp leaf litter, lead pencil and marzipan. Wild cherry, boysenberry, blood orange and fennel pollen. Cool entry, agile, focused and linear. Lightly textured. Leaves a tingling sensation on the palate.
Points 92 TW
Felciano
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromatics of rose petals, leaf litter, black tea and green olive. Blackberry, blueberry, menthol overtones, distant tobacco and orange peel. Fresh, youthful, agile and very juicy. Good weight. Vibrant acidity. Part blended tannins. Medium length on the finish.
Points 91 TW
Felciano
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Deep ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatics of red rose petals, red peony, red berry fruits, distant lavender and citrus zest. Bing cherry, raspberry, plum, redcurrant and salty liquorice. Warm entry, light in texture, delicate and slender. Balanced. Tannins and acidity fully entwined. Light mineral tones. Fruity on the wide close.
Points 93 TW
Fèlsina
Berardenga
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium ruby red in colour with translucent pink undertones. Aromas of pink rose petals, violet florals, red berry fruits, eucalyptus and sweet scented spice. Bing cherry, redcurrant, blood orange, fennel pollen, liquorice and sweet tobacco. Delicate and light in texture. Slight citrusy character. Balanced. Savoury. Medium length on the close.
Points 91 TW
Fèlsina
Berardenga
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Medium ruby red in colour with purple undertones. Glorious bouquet of red and dark blue blossom florals, underpinned by scented sweet spice, black fruits, mint and crushed rock minerality. Black cherry, cranberry, dewberry, dark chocolate, blackcurrant, sweet tobacco, dried herbs and orange peel. Floats on the palate showing zesty acidity with fine rounded tannins. Breadth of flavour on the back end is absorbing.
Points 94 TW
Fèlsina
Rancia
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of black fruits, distant violet and lavender florals, mint and clove. Typical of Rancia very inward looking, almost closed down. This is a big wine that will require plenty you bottle age. Easy to be critical at this stage, but beware this is a wine full of twists and turns. Complex minerality on the close. Patience required.
Points 92-95 TW
Fèlsina
Colonia
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2019
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of dark red florals, violet and lavender. Eucalyptus and clove, cedar nuances and white smoke. Black cherry, pomegranate, blackberry, graphite, blonde tobacco, dark chocolate, blood orange, white pepper and oaky vanilla. Cool entry, well extracted, silky tannins surround fresh core of black and red fruits. Poignant acidity. Good weight.Tons of energy. Needs time to round off a couple of sharp edges. Linear. Long finish.
Points 92- 94 TW
Fontodi
Chianti Classico DOCG 2021
Intense ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatics of dark blue florals, black berry fruits, liquorice and distant balsam. Blackcurrant, plum and blueberry, damson and blonde tobacco, polished saddle leather and nutmeg. Saturates the palate, spicy character. Juicy and free flowing. Fresh mouthfeel on the close.
Points 92 TW
Fontodi
Filetta di Lamole
Chianti Classico DOCG 2021
Deep purple in colour. Aromas of dark blue florals, leaf litter, salty liquorice and worn leather. Blackberry, blackcurrant, clove, herbs, undertones of menthol and pipe tobacco.
Warm entry, vivid acidity sustains the rich palate. Linear intensity. Blended tannins. Long articulated finish.
Points 93 TW
Fontodi
Terrazze San Leolino
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Panzano 2021
Intense ruby red in colour. Aromas of red and blackberry fruits, dark spices, florals of violet and bluebell and distant lavender. White pepper, fennel pollen and praline. Bing cherry, plum, dewberry, spice box and leather. Boisterous and super expressive, primarily flavours, balanced like a high wire act. Perfectly structured tannins fully engaged with fresh acidity, that drives the energy. Long juicy close.
Points 96+ TW
Fontodi
Vigna del Sorbo
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Panzano 2021
Deep ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatics of a cherry medley, exotic spice, leather notes and black pepper. Blackberry and blackcurrant fruit core surrounded by crunchy tannins and zesty acidity, salty liquorice and complex layered minerality. Stunning textural richness. Elegant. A beguiling act of balance. A showstopper.
Points 98-100 TW
Frescobaldi
Tenuta Perano
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium purple in colour. Aromas of black berry fruit, violet and lavender floral notes, bitter dark chocolate and fennel pollen. Blackcurrant, blackberry, damson, pomegranate, cedar shavings, grilled herbs, sweet tobacco and blood orange. Restrained palate due to youth, fine sculptured body, agile and juicy, mild playful acidity and ripe rounded tannins. Texture has depth. Subtle but noticeable complex minerality. Persistent. Linear. Freshness in evidence on the long finish.
Points 93 TW
Frescobaldi
Tenuta Perano
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromatic profile consists of red rose petals, red carnation, hawthorn, blackberry and distant tea tree. Bing cherry, redcurrant, raspberry clove, star anise, liquorice sweet tobacco, Kirsch and blood orange. Silky textural resonance, youthful intensity, bright and translucent, savoury and balanced. Tannins nearly dissolved into the wine, fresh vivid acidity drives the mid palate. Layered minerality. Has an ethereal quality throughout.
Points 94 TW
Frescobaldi
Tenuta Perano
Rialzi
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2020
Bright ruby red in colour. Pale floral aromas of gardenia, wisteria and honeysuckle floating on a bed of pomegranate juice, blood orange with a dusting of dark chocolate powder. Red cherry, boysenberry, liquorice, white smoke, cedar notes and mellow spice. Rich palate. Great weight. Refined with deep textural structure. Perfumed intensity following the palate that reverts back to core fruit on the hauntingly long finish.
Points 95 TW
Gagliole
Rubiolo
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Deep ruby red in colour. Aromas of blackcurrant jam, mint and fennel pollen. Blackberry, blueberry, damson and boysenberry. Distant menthol infused herbs, sweet tobacco, Kirsch and oaky vanilla. Warm on the palate, luscious, potent, fruit packed in. Great energy. Always gives more than the sum of the parts.
Points 92 TW
Gagliole
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020 (second tasting, first 16th March 2024)
Medium ruby red in colour with bright pink undertones. Bouquet showing red rose petal, dark blue florals, blood orange with sweet scented spice. Black cherry, blackcurrant, cranberry, dewberry, toasted sweet tobacco, pomegranate and white smoke. Considerable appeal on the palate, well extracted, layered, polished and bright. Formidable energy from the start to the long finish.
Points 93 TW
Gagliole
Gallule
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2021
Intense ruby red in colour with purple undertones. Dazzling display of refined aromatics consisting of red blossom florals, violet and wisteria, all underpinned with lavender and fennel pollen. Black cherry, redcurrant, blueberry, pomegranate and orange peel. Purity of flavours are compelling. Sangiovese of the highest order. Supple red fruit palate. Finely etched minerality. Vertical lift after mid palate. Long and focused. A liquid pleasure bomb.
Points 98+ TW
Geografico
Contessa di Radda
Chianti Classico DOCG 2021
Pale ruby red in colour. Aromas of dark blue florals, pale rose petal, distant Orange Curacao. Red cherry, red plum, white smoke and praline notes. Lightly textured on the palate, agile and juicy, dry stone mineral nuances. Progress in a linear form to a medium length finish.
Points 90 TW
Geografico
Contessa di Radda
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020
Medium ruby red in colour. Subtle aromatic profile of violet, hyacinth and distant lavender. Red cherry, redcurrant, dark plum, mellow spice, cedar notes, essence of citrus. Cool entry, light in texture, could benefit from a little more weight to carry it through. Tapers from mid palate to the close.
Points 88 TW
Guidi
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Pale garnet red in colour. Heady aromas of red berry fruits, underbrush and orange peel. Dark cherry, plum, cranberry, chocolate, white smoke and blonde tobacco. Wild cherry, blackberry, pomegranate, mint and cedar chips. Comes across a touch lean and mellow on the palate. Wry acidity vie with dusty tannins. Has not yet come together.
Points 85 TW
Guidi
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Pale ruby red in colour. Delicate fine bouquet of violet florals, leaf litter, praline and dried Mediterranean herbs. Plum, rhubarb, loganberry, mild tobacco and orange peel. Briny notes upon entry, agile, showing tension coming off mid palate. Leaves a fruity fresh on the back end.
Points 89 TW
Il Contadino Cusano
Poggio Torselli
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of red berry fruits, orange zest, floral underbrush and fennel pollen. Plum, cherry, wild strawberry, lliquorice, myrtle, wet slate and tobacco. Silky entry, agile and intense. Vertical. Soft contours. Leads with ripe fruit. Crunchy tannins vie with fresh spiky acidity. Medium length on the finish.
Points 90 TW
Il Contadino Cusano
Poggio Torselli
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of ripe black fruits, mellow humus and praline. Blackberry, blackcurrant, damson, liquorice and plum. Silky on the palate. Saline infused energy. Savoury and earthy. Long fruity and juicy finish.
Points 90 TW
Il Palagio
Chianti Classico DOCG 2020
Pale ruby red in colour. Aromatic profile consisting of red rose petal, violet and lavender florals, cherry notes and fennel flowers. Black cherry, pomegranate, sage, sweet tobacco and blood orange. Floats on the palate with the lightest of touches, yet leaves a fruity imprint. Tannins, acidity and minerality all in harmony. Rich and creamy on the finish.
Points 93 TW
Il Palagio
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2019
Medium ruby red in colour. Red florals abound on the nose with baked plum, distant cinnamon and clove. Red cherry, raspberry, blood orange, liquorice, pomegranate and balsamic notes. Saturates the palate with great depth and volume. Robust. Close knit tannins vie with poignant acidity. Fresh mouthfeel on the close.
Points 93+ TW
Isole e Olena
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Intense ruby red in colour with purple highlights. Prune, damp earth, rose petal, grilled herbs and roast meat all play a part in the aromatic profile. Bing cherry, redcurrant, worn leather, distant liquorice and orange peel. Refined textural resonance coupled with a layered intensity introduce the sip. Exudes class. Balanced to perfection. Has buckets of energy. Focused with gravitas. Hits all the right notes. Impressive.
Points 95+ TW
Istine
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium purple in colour. Bouquet of violet, iris, gardenia and lavender florals, salty liquorice and floral underbrush.Red cherry, redcurrant, plum, blood orange, distant tobacco and grilled herbs, Silky on the palate. Superb transparency. Refreshing acidity. Slightly exotic. Long and wide on the close.
Points 93 TW
Istine
Levigne
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Medium ruby red in colour with pink highlights. Lifted and elegant aromatic profile of red rose petal, carnations, fennel pollen and essence of citrus. Redcurrant, boysenberry, distant balsamic notes, black tea and praline. Silky on the palate, showing poise and power, an iron fist in a velvet glove. Utterly beguiling. Glorious nuances and delineation. Hauntingly long.
Points 96 TW
Istine
Vigna Casanova Dell’Aia
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Radda 2021
Pale purple in colour. Dark blue floral blossoms, pomegranate, candied orange peel and distant cherry, account for the aromatic profile. Plum, redcurrant, white cherry, liquorice, clove and star anise.Tight and polished on the palate, solid ripe fruit core surrounded by crunchy tannin structure and vivid acidity. Really appealing.
Points 94 TW
Istine
Vigna Cavarchione
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Gaiole 2021
Medium ruby red in colour with pink highlights. Dense aromas of warm ripe red and black berry fruit, distant eucalyptus, floral underbrush and black olive. Blackcurrant, dark plum, wild strawberry, pomegranate, salty liquorice, grilled herbs and sea shore minerality. Soft curves in evidence on the palate, slight citrusy character. Showing complete ripeness. Great weight. Linear on the close.
Points 94 TW
Istine
Vigna Istine
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Radda 2021
Intense purple in colour. Aromas of freshly cut spring flowers, with bluebell and violet, red berry fruit and candied orange peel. Red cherry, raspberry, cranberry, pomegranate, salty liquorice, mint and tar. Finely sculptured body. Unique style. Vivid yet transparent. Tip toes across the palate yet really delivers. Plush tannins. Zesty acidity helps provide energy lift. Medium length on the close.
Points 95 TW
La Montanina
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Pale ruby red in colour. Aromas of red florals including carnations, rose and red peony. Dark cherry, plum, blueberry, blackberry, distant asphalt, blood orange and walnut. Silky on the palate. Showing nervous energy. Well extracted. Layered intensity. Opulent berry character.
Oaky vanilla nuances on the finish.
Points 92 TW
La Montanina
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. Pale pink florals, cherry nuances, mellow sweet scented spice. Redcurrant, raspberry, wild cherry and blood orange. Saline infused energy. Lightly textured. Caressing tannins. Youthful and primary. Tapers slightly on the back end. In time this will fill out as it adds weight.
Points 91- 93 TW
La Sala del Torriano
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Pale ruby red in colour with a deep purple undertone. On the nose, fresh fruit aromas, menthol and herb notes. Black cherry, blackcurrant, pomegranate, distant Mocha and liquorice. Silky on the palate then acidity grabs your attention being so fresh, clean and vibrant. No major nuances or character yet formed at this stage, as the wine is almost closed.
Points 89-92 TW
La Sala del Torriano
Il Torriano
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2020
Medium ruby red in colour. Heady bouquet of forward ripe berry fruit, spice, crushed rose petals, tobacco and distant balsamic notes. Dark cherry, blackberry, plum, blackcurrant, blood orange and cedar notes. Cool entry, citrusy character, slightly angular, definitely vertical, tapers sharply following mid palate. Medium length on the finish.
Points 91 TW
La Sala del Torriano
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2019
Deep garnet red in colour. Aromas of fennel pollen, cherry, white smoke, mint, lavender, essence of citrus all are evident on the nose. White cherry, pomegranate, boysenberry, orange peel, eucalyptus, distant exotic spice and sandalwood.The palate is tight and polished, deep textural resonance, potent and persistent. Punchy and racy. Wide and long on the finish.
Points 93 TW
Le Cinciole
Chianti Classico DOCG 2021
Deep purple in colour with pink undertones. Concentrated aromas of blackberry fruits, lead pencil, tobacco, nutshell, herbs and mellow spice. Bing cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, damp cigar box, clove, star anise and salty liquorice.The wine just floats on the palate, balanced, full of energy, creamy, layered minerality. Tangy acidity. Very complex. Needs time.
Points 92-94 TW
Le Cinciole
Aluigi
Campo ai Peri
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Panzano 2020
Deep ruby red in colour. The aromatics of this wine just cast a spell and draw you in to a world of potent, fleshy dark ripe fruit, intoxicating balsamic vapours, star anise, clove, cinnamon and nutmeg. Shavings of oriental woods such as cedar, sandalwood and agar wood. On the palate blackberry, blackcurrant, dark plum, pomegranate, incense, black tea, sweet tobacco and graphite all await. Silky tannins interact with fresh ripe fruits and pulsating acidic notes. Wild and savoury. What a wine!
Points 97 TW
Le Filigare
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Pale ruby red in colour. Aromas of sweet scented spice, violet, bluebell florals, pipe tobacco and mellow leaf litter. White cherry, mulberry, raspberry, salty liquorice, blood orange, eucalyptus, new leather and ash smoke. On the palate, blended tannins interplay with fresh mild acidity. Mid weight. Agile. Very forward for such a young wine. Plenty to say for itself. Surprising and very quaffable.
Points 93+ TW
Le Filigare
Maria Vittoria
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Intense ruby red in colour with bright pink highlights. Aromas of exotic woods, red and black fruits, eastern spice, cigar box and bitter orange peel. Blackcurrant, blackberry, boysenberry, coconut nuances, lime leaves, liquorice and a whiff of espresso. On the palate, the structure is in harmony and totally balanced. Superb depth. So much class. Primary. Layers of liquid pleasure.
Points 95 TW
Le Palaie
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium ruby red in colour with pink undertones. The bouquet is so concentrated one almost pulls back from its deliverance. Raspberry, red cherry, wild strawberry, blood orange, tobacco and candied citrus peel. Cool entry, citrusy in feel, all seams to be in the right place, a touch quirky, fresh and juicy mouthfeel on the finish. The energy is mind blowing.
Points 93+ TW
Mannucci Droandi
Ceppeto
Chianti Classico DOCG 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of red rose petals, red carnation, cranberry and distant clove. Bing cherry, redcurrant, plum, white smoke and orange peel. On the palate it’s agile and juicy, light in texture, woven tannins and acidity. Good energy pulse. Fresh and clean on the back end.
Points 94 TW
Mannucci Droandi
Ceppeto
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2019
Deep garnet red in colour. Lifted aromatic profile of medicated herbs, violet and bluebell florals, distant cinnamon and clove. Blackcurrant, blackberry, dark plum and cedar notes. Silky smooth entry, showing deep textural presence, fruit just packed in. Mid weight. Balanced. Dense and juicy. Long wide finish.
Points 95 TW
Maurizio Alongi
Vigna Barbischio
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Medium ruby red in colour with bright purple undertones. Dark blue florals of violet, Iris and lavender, sea shore pebble minerality, distant sage. Red cherry, pomegranate, raspberry, tobacco, bitter chocolate, citrus zest and mellow spice. Needs plenty of aeration to coax out its nuances. Dusty tannins vie with stringent acidity still in play. Tons of energy. Showing youthful intensity. Needs time.
Points 91-93 TW
Special Note
The Castello di Fonterutoli vineyards are located in three adjacent municipalities of Chianti Classico namely: Castelnuovo Berardenga, Radda in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti. Since 2017 the Mazzei family vilified all the large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, in order to amplify the diversity of the various terroirs, the labels now bear the names of Vicoregio 36, Badìola and Castello di Fonterutoli.
Mazzei
Fonterutoli
Chianti Classico DOGG 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromatics of red rose petals, sour cherry, blackberry,
pomegranate, and distant sweet spice. Black cherry, blackcurrant, damson, plum, mild tobacco, clove overtones, dark chocolate and lime leaves. Cool on the palate. Finely textured. Showing tension, yet supple. Superb intensity following mid palate to a long finish. Still an infant, long way to go.
Points 93 +TW
Mazzei
Ser Lapo
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Pale ruby red in colour with bright purple undertones. Aromas of violet and bluebell florals, Kirsch, oaky vanilla and pipe tobacco. Dark cherry, pomegranate, boysenberry, cedar notes, salty liquorice and tanned leather. The palate shows crunchy tannins along with poignant acidity, still fervently engaged in their activity. Well extracted, linear, savoury, juicy and balanced toward dry. Medium length on the finish.
Points 91- 93 TW
Mazzei
Vicoregio 36
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Castelnuovo Berardenga 2021
Intense ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatic profile of violet and lavender florals, cherry, cranberry, cedar shavings and distant oaky vanilla. Introduces stunning textural richness. Plump and juicy. Superb concentration. Poised and balanced. Secondary nuances of dark chocolate, mellow exotic spice and bitter orange peel. Gives layers of pleasure. Infinite finish.
Points 96 TW
Mazzei
Castello Fonterutoli
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Castellina 2021
Intense and bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of dark blue blossoms, crushed cherry flesh, whiff of espresso, and fennel pollen. On the palate, a medley of cherry, distant blackcurrant and blueberry, cedar notes, closes down a touch after mid palate, this is the least open of the three cru’s at this stage. On the finish it’s juicy, slight chewy tannins alongside wry acidity. Needs a few years bottle time to fully express itself and relax.
Points 93-95 TW
Mazzei
Badiòla
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Radda 2021
Ruby red in colour with garnet highlights. Aromatic profile contains meadow florals, violet and gardenia flowers, cherry, blood orange and pepper notes. Blackcurrant, plum, blackberry, distant Mocha, black cherry, blonde tobacco and roast beef nuances.Tip toes across the palate hardly making an imprint, so light in texture, fine grained tannins vie with playful acidity. Finishes with a mix of powered stone minerality and berry fruit.
Points 95+ TW
Montefioralle
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium ruby red in colour. Dark blue florals of violet, hyacinth and bluebell. Blackcurrant dark cherry, blackberry, pipe tobacco, distant orange peel and mint. Cool entry coats the palate with juicy fresh core fruit. Pulsating acidity vie with well structured tannins. Clean and fresh mouthfeel on the close. Youthful needs time.
Points 92 TW
Montefioralle
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of red blossom florals, clove, mint and cherry. Blackberry, blackcurrant, plum, blood orange, tobacco and grilled herbs. Silky on the palate, light in texture, supple, juicy, tannins and acidity are in tandem. A lift after mid palate due to super expressive acidic content. Secondary nuances of cherry, Kirsch and oaky vanilla. Long and wide on the close.
Points 93 TW
Morino
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Pale purple in colour with garnet red undertones. Subtle aromas of spring florals, orange peel, cherry, mellow spice and salty liquorice. Pleasant progression with fine tannins and fresh acidity, youthful, agile and fruity. Well balanced. Broadens after mid palate to a very long clean mouthfeel.
Points 92 TW
Nittardi
Belcanto
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium purple in colour with pink undertones. Aromas of pale pink rose petals, cherry, herbs and damp underbrush. Black cherry, blackcurrant, tobacco, leather, liquorice and distant balsamic notes. On the palate, juicy and rich, layered minerality, pulsating energy from clean fresh acidity, fine tannin structure. All the elements are coming together. Just needs a few years bottle age.
Points 92+ TW
Nittardi
Casanuova di Nittardi
Vigna Doghessa
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatics of red rose petals, a medley of cherry vapour, Kirsch, vanilla and cedar nuances. Bing cherry, wild strawberry, clove, cinnamon, orange peel and white smoke. Showing natural richness on the palate, plump and juicy, punchy, fruit flavours in bold print. Tingling acidity that drives the energy. Long on the close.
Points 94 TW
Nittardi
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2021
Intense garnet red in colour. Heady florals of violet, bluebell and honeysuckle, with distant dark berry fruits. Dark cherry, redcurrant, blackberry, damson, tobacco and damp forest floor. Good textural depth. Balanced. Fine tannins and fresh acidity. The latter sustains the rich body.
Points 93 TW
Ormanni
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium purple in colour. Red florals lead the list of aromas, liquorice, essence of citrus and mellow spice make their contribution. Bing cherry, redcurrant, wild strawberry, blonde tobacco, distant cinnamon and clove, cedar notes and balsam. Paints the palate with a light stroke, fresh and finely formed for the vintage. Edgy and primary in places. Poised and elegant in others. Articulated close.
Points 93+ TW
Ormanni
Borro del Diavolo
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Bright ruby red in colour. Aromas of rose petal, violet and lavender florals and damp earth. Black cherry, cranberry, raspberry, pipe tobacco, candied orange peel and salty liquorice. Structure is powerful but quiet as a Tesla motor engine. Citrusy in places. Juniper and myrtle appear briefly on the close. Naturally rich. Quirky!
Points 94 TW
Orsumella
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium garnet red in colour. Aromas of black berry fruit, violet florals, mellow spice and fennel pollen. Blackberry, blackcurrant, dark plum, clove overtones, sage and orange peel. Lightly textured, floats over the palate gracefully, tannins are rounded, the acidity is spiky, but will calm down in time. Beguiling and singular. Long on the finish.
Points 93+ TW
Orsumella
Corte Ranieri
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromatics of dark berry fruits in alcohol, violet and blue florals, salty liquorice and dark spice. Black cherry, raspberry, pomegranate, sweet tobacco and grilled Mediterranean herbs.The palate reflects the bouquet. Velvety tannins with a hint of steel vie with brisk acidity. Articulated. Mellow. Medium length on the finish.
Points 94 TW
Orsumella
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2020
Pale purple in colour. Hardly anything to find on the bouquet, distant pale pink rose petal? Sour notes and dark complex minerality on the palate, perhaps a touch closed. It’s all there but well hidden. Red berry makes a brief appearance.
Points 89- 92 TW
Panzanello
1427
Chianti Classico DOCG 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. A mixed bunch of red and blue florals, mellow spice and toasted herbs form the aromatic profile. Black cherry, blackcurrant, plum, blood orange, distant cedar notes and clove. Rich and inviting on the palate, plump and agile. Zesty acidity drives the wine. Crunchy fresh tannins and crushed rock minerality are in play. Tapers slightly to a long finish.
Points 92+ TW
Panzanello
1427
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020
Medium ruby red in colour with bright pink undertones. Subtle fragrance on the nose of pale pink flowers, carnation and violet. Kirsch, cedar and mint also play walk on roles. Sour cherry, pomegranate, loganberry, liquorice, dark mellow spice and sweet blonde tobacco. On the palate, a mixed bag of light textures and vibrating acidity all tightly wound. Needs plenty of bottle age.
Points 90-92 TW
Podere Ciona
Chianti Classico DOCG 2020
Pale purple in colour. Aromas of black fruits, dry humus, boot leather, violet flowers and nutshell. Black cherry, liquorice, cinnamon, nutmeg and juniper. Cool entry. Citrusy in character. Mid weight. Slender. Very light in textural content. Mellow notes from mid palate to the close.
Points 89 TW
Podere Ciona
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva Gaiole in Chianti 2018
Medium garnet red in colour. Heady bouquet of meadow flowers, camphor, ripe crushed black fruits and dark spice. Silky on the palate, broadens quickly showing ripe fresh fruit core, blended tannins and acidity. Linear. Juicy. Positive energy. Articulated close.
Points 92 TW
Podere Ciona
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione Gaiole in Chianti 2018
Medium garnet red in colour. A mixture of red blossom florals, red fruit in spirit with balsamic notes account for the bouquet. Red cherry, redcurrant, blood orange, liquorice and black pepper. On the palate, rich and inviting, good volume of textural worth. Savoury. Juicy, fresh and linear on the finish.
Points 92 TW
Poderi
Melini
Granaio
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Bright ruby red in colour. Dark blue florals, black berry fruits, mint, sandalwood and exotic spice introduce the aromatic profile. Blackcurrant, cherry, plum, orange peel and smoke. Silky textures on the palate, juicy, racy, finely etched minerality. Tapers from mid palate to a long wide conclusion.
Points 92 TW
Poderi Melini
Vigneti La Selvanella
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020
Deep ruby red in colour. Lifted bouquet of violet, gardenia and bluebell florals, dark exotic spice and cassis. Red cherry, cranberry, salty liquorice, pipe tobacco and bitter orange peel. On the palate red fruit nuances carry the day, tannins and acidity fully intertwined. Savoury. Hovers on the finish.
Points 92 TW
Poggio al Sole
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Pale ruby red in colour. Aromas of crushed red rose petals, cherry in spirit, blood orange and balsam notes.Bing cherry, pomegranate, plum, wild strawberry, liquorice and exotic dark spice. On the palate, noticeable tangy acidity wrapped around core fresh fruits, so juicy. Crunchy tannins assist the structure. Focused. Fresh mouthfeel on the finish.
Points 92 TW
Poggio al Sole
Casasilia
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2021
Deep ruby red in colour. Fragrant floral canopy of red rose petals, red carnation, distant patchouli, cherry in spirit, liquorice and dark spice. Red cherry, plum, orange peel, polished leather, sweet tobacco and a whiff of espresso. Coats the palate with layered intensity, caressing tannins with ultra fresh acidity. Poised and polished. Memorable. Sea shore mineral ozone nuances on the finish.
Points 94 TW
Pomona
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium ruby red in colour. Aromas of spring cut flowers, dark berry fruits and liquorice. Dark cherry, cranberry, redcurrant, pomegranate, mellow spice including white pepper. Extremely well weighted, broadens on the mid palate, luscious and layered. Balance tends to lean towards dry. Great length.
Points 92 TW
Pomona
Vigna Pomona
L'Omino
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2021
Bright ruby red in colour. Lifted aromatic profile of red berry fruits, crushed red rose petals, liquorice, clove and floral underbrush. Medley of cherry, wild strawberry, plum, white pepper and oaky vanilla with some herb notes. Very light in texture on the palate. Needs times to flush out character nuances.Promising. Articulated close.
Points 92-94 TW
Principe Corsini
Villa Le Corti
Chianti Classico DOCG 2023
Pale purple in colour. Interesting aromatic profile, consisting of marigold florals, ginger and marmalade jam, star anise and fennel pollen. A mixture of red and black fruits, including a medley of cherry, redcurrant, blackberry and dark plum. Medium rich on the palate, berry character, agile with great length. Tannins and acidity well progressed in their evolution. Hovers on the close.
Points 92-94 TW
Principe Corsini
Villa Le Corti
Cortevecchia
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020
Medium garnet red in colour. Aromas of crushed red rose petal, violet, bluebell and gardenia florals with cherry in spirit. Bing cherry, rhubarb, candied orange peel, grilled herbs, salty liquorice and nutmeg. On the palate it comes across as rich, well extracted with stunning energy, bold and inviting. Focused. Bright and juicy on the finish.
Points 93+ TW
Principe Corsini
Villa Le Corti
Zac
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2019 (Tasted previously 27th September 2022)
Bright garnet red in colour. Aromas of rose petal, violet, gardenia, myrtle and juniper. Red cherry, loganberry and lime leaves. Has added a little weight and flushed out primary nuances since last tasted. Plenty of verve. This wine has a lot to tell in its challenge with time.
Points 96 TW
Principe Corsini
Villa Le Corti
Don Tommaso
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione San Casciano 2021
Medium ruby red in colour. Subtle aromas of rose petal, carnation, orange zest and dark sweet scented spice. Blackberry, blueberry, loganberry, fennel pollen, salty liquorice, wild cherry and eucalyptus. Saturates the palate, deep textural vibes, so juicy, wild and savoury, fresh compact tannins and friendly acidity all in harmony.The length is quite extraordinary and leaves a fresh tingling mouthfeel. Leaves a unique imprint.
Points 97+ TW
Quercia Al Poggio
Chianti Classico DOCG 2022
Medium purple in colour. Aromas of violet, Iris and lavender florals with black berry fruit and dark chocolate. Blackcurrant, damson, wild cherry, worn leather, salty liquorice and white pepper. Youthful and edgy. Needs time to relax and come together. Fresh but tense tannins and zingy acidity. This will all work itself out.
Points 91-93 TW
Quercia Al Poggio
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2020
Deep garnet red in colour with slight amber rim. Aromas of ripe black berry fruit, clove, fennel pollen and mint infused herbs. Black cherry, wild strawberry, plum, rhubarb, polished saddle leather and salty liquorice. Showing remarkable finesse, saturates the palate, deep rich textural nuances, poignant acidity drives the energy. Complex mineral composition. Fine tannin structure. Articulated finish.
Points 94 TW
Quercia Al Poggio
Vigna Le Cataste
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2019
Medium ruby red in colour. Delicate floral aromas of pale pink rose petals, violet, bluebell and gardenia. Medley of Kirsch and vanilla. Rainier cherry, redcurrant, dewberry, liquorice, mellow spice notes, distant blonde tobacco. Savoury. Dense. Juicy. Linear. Mid weight to full bodied. In harmony. Vibrating acidity drives the energy and freshness in this wine still clinging on to its youth.
Points 92+ TW
Querciabella
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva 2021
Medium purple in colour with bright pink undertones. Delicate floral canopy of pink rose, violet, bluebell and gardenia, accompanied by a medley of cherry marinating in spirit along with candied orange peel. Wild cherry, redcurrant, distant cedar notes and dry leaf litter, salty liquorice and grilled herbs. Opens at glacier speed on the palate, restrained shy personality, showing elegance, silky textures wrapped around solid cherry fruit core. Mineral notes give vigour. Whiff of white smoke on the close.
Points 95 TW
Querciabella
Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione 2020
Pale ruby red in colour with bright pink undertones. A seductive bouquet of warm spicy scent, cherry, rose, sandalwood, red peony and distant clove. Wild cherry, pomegranate, raspberry, mint, redcurrant and stewed rhubarb. On the palate there is a layered intensity, plush tannins, vibrant fruit acidity, death defying act of balance, Mineral and stony undertone. Secondary nuances of sweet tobacco and bitter orange peel. A perfect indulgence.
Points 98 TW
Part 3 (R - V) continues on the next post....
© Tony Wood Italian Wine 2025
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