In our Chianti Classico tasting panels this year, the Gran Selezione wines turned in their best performance to date, with 20 recommendations, 15 of those garnering exceptional scores. Most were from 2016 and 2015, two excellent vintages, which surely contributed to the successful showing. It\u2019s a bit of good news for a category that was born six years ago amidst controversy and skepticism.<\/p>\n
Even if you\u2019re an ardent Italian wine lover, you may be asking, \u201cWhat is Gran Selezione?\u201d It\u2019s a name the Chianti Classico Consorzio came up with for a new top tier that would sit above Riserva and annata in Chianti Classico\u2019s quality pyramid. Gran Selezione was born out of some producers\u2019 concerns that the rules for Riserva wines are too lax. The Consorzio also hoped that the new top-tier cat-
egory would attract those making Toscana IGT wines back into the fold. Those \u201cSuper Tuscans\u201d include some of the region\u2019s most elite sangiovese-based wines.<\/p>\n
How does Gran Selezione differ from Riserva? Not as much as some producers had hoped it would, a shortcoming that created controversy from the start. Gran Selezione enforces slightly higher levels of alcohol and extract, and requires 30 months of aging to Riserva\u2019s 24. Some producers believe that six months of additional aging was inadequate,
while others believe than an emphasis on longer aging and higher concentration leads to wines that are over-oaked and unbalanced. (That was certainly true of some Gran Selezione wines submitted to our tasting panels in previous years.)<\/p>\n
Other aspects of the Gran Selezione rules caused greater disagreement. Requirements for grape varieties are identical for all three categories of Chianti Classico\u2014a minimum of 80 percent sangiovese with the remaining 20 percent coming from any red variety approved in the
zone, which includes traditional Tuscan grapes as well as international varieties, such as cabernet sauvignon and merlot.<\/p>\n
Perhaps the biggest bone of contention was over rules governing origin. Many producers, especially smaller ones, thought Gran Selezione wines should originate from a single vineyard. Some also advocated for tying the category to Chianti Classico\u2019s subzones, but no such recognition exists yet, despite years of discussion.<\/p>\n
In the end, the regulations require only that the grapes must come from a single estate, a definition that accommodates producers whose estates can encompass thousands of acres, but alienates those who see greater emphasis on territoriality as Chianti Classico\u2019s future. Like a number of other producers, Laura Bianchi of Castello di Monsanto, who makes her Riserva Il Poggio exclusively with native varieties from one of Chianti Classico\u2019s most historic single-vineyard sites, initially declined to participate in protest of what she saw as watered-down
regulations.<\/p>\n
Gran Selezione\u2019s rocky rollout didn\u2019t inspire much enthusiasm among US wine buyers. NYC\u2019s Del Posto champions Chianti Classico wines on its extensive Italian list, but wine director Evan Clagnaz was initially put off by the new category. He now carries about half a dozen Gran Selezione wines, but three times as many Riservas. \u201cI don\u2019t think consumers care [about the Gran Selezione category], because it was mishandled when it was released.\u201d Clagnaz would prefer to see Chianti Classico focus on closer identification with subzones and elimination of international varieties. Carlin Karr, who runs the 1,200-bottle list at Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder, Colorado, echoes Clagnaz\u2019s objection to international varieties, preferring the pure, unoaked sangiovese flavors she finds in many Chianti Classico wines: \u201c[Gran Selezione] was just a marketing debacle,\u201d she says. \u201cI don\u2019t think that more expensive versions blended with international varieties are the best thing for Chianti Classico.\u201d<\/p>\n
This raises the question of what market need Gran Selezione does fill: In our tastings, we found plenty of bright, delicious wines within Chianti Classico\u2019s other two categories, and only a handful of Gran Seleziones outshone the top Riservas. Consumers looking for powerful examples of pure sangiovese wines, and willing to pay premium prices, can find plenty in Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico\u2019s neighbor to the south. So where does this leave Gran Selezione? The people behind Gran Selezione have heard the criticisms and, according to Consorzio president and Fontodi proprietor Giovanni Manetti, are working on changes to address them. Manetti recently outlined plans to propose higher minimums for sangiovese (up to 90 percent); to decrease or eliminate international varieties; and to create an official recognition of subzones. The proposals have convinced at least one skeptic; Bianchi of Castello di Monsanto recently released her 2014 Il Poggio as a Gran Selezione for the first time.<\/p>\n
Whether Manetti can bring consensus to the 580-member Consorzio remains to be seen, but rules that tie the wines more closely to native grape varieties and specific sites, and that clearly communicate these differences to consumers, would be a step in the right direction.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” text_font_size=”17px” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ text_font=”|700|||||||”]
CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE<\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][dsm_faq dsm_accordion_gap=”4px” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”16px” closed_header_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Fontodi – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo” dsm_content=” Giovanni Manetti\u2019s Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a standout in 2016, exuding scents of lavender and mint that showcase the vintage\u2019s soaring aromatics. Made entirely of sangiovese from 40-year-old vines grown on the slopes of This is a sultry wine, sangiovese\u2019s bright cherry flavors and edgy acidity smoothed out by the addition of merlot (13 This wine shows a richer side of the 2016 vintage, with dense flavors of black cherry and dried currant layered with notes of braised fennel and cacao gained during aging in barrels (mostly Hungarian oak). For all of its dark flavors and dense texture, the wine remains lively and balanced, brightened by scents of lavender, menthol, basil and thyme. The flavors speak deeply of Tuscany, though with a modern accent.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello di Monsanto – 2014 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Il Poggio” dsm_content=” Il Poggio is one of the more compelling Chianti Classicos coming out of 2014\u2019s cool and damp growing season, thanks to the vineyard\u2019s well-draining galestro soils, ventilated hillside exposition and the intensive manual work by Laura Bianchi\u2019s team to thin the canopy around the bunches. A traditional blend of sangiovese with five percent of canaiolo and colorino, the wine offers lively flavors of cherry, cranberry and pomegranate driven by brisk acidity and balanced by notes of smoke, dried leaves and blistered cherry tomatoes. Its classic Tuscan flavors call for pairing with tomato-based pasta sauces.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Rocca di Montegrossi – 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto San Marcellino” dsm_content=” Marco Ricasoli\u2019s grandfather planted the San Marcellino vineyard in 1966, and the vines range in age from 20 to 50 years. They impart a deep concentration that feels especially rich and layered in the warm 2015 vintage. The wine opens with bold cherry and blackberry flavors that take on nuances of tobacco, black olive and dried thyme. The tannins are ripe and chewy, holding the flavors firmly together as the wine progresses to a long, elegant finish.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Principe Corsini – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Zac” dsm_content=” Duccio Corsini decided to rebrand Zac as a Gran Selezione eight years after its inaugural 2008 vintage, when it was labeled as an IGT wine. A pure sangiovese sourced from the six-acre Gugliaie vineyard, which has been farmed biodynamically since 2015, this captures the vibrant personality of the 2016 growing season in its bright flavors of cherry, raspberry and orange zest and its brisk acidity. The wine rested for 18 months in French oak barrels (50 percent new), gaining polished tannins and rich spice notes that linger on the finish.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Mazzei – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli” dsm_content=” The Mazzei family selects grapes for this wine (sangiovese with eight percent malvasia nera and colorino) from the 50 best parcels at the Fonterutoli estate, and ages the wine for 20 months in French oak barriques and tonneaux (60 percent new). The wine shows flavors of ripe black cherry leavened by notes of toasted nuts, tobacco and porcini mushrooms, the darkness of the flavors creating a warm, cozy impression that suggests a pairing with a hearty beef stew.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Rocca di Montegrossi – 2014 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto San Marcellino” dsm_content=” Marco Ricasoli pulled a balanced and expressive San Marcellino out of the cool, rainy 2014 growing season, which he calls \u201cthe most stressful year of my whole life as a producer.\u201d The wine shows good ripeness for the vintage, with dark cherry and blackberry flavors encased in firm, meaty tannins. It includes ten per- cent of pugnitello, a small-berried native variety that ripens reliably even in challenging vintages. Its dark, savory fruit tones are balanced by sangiovese\u2019s bright acidity, while notes of dried thyme and oregano give the wine a distinctly Tuscan personality.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello di Volpaia – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassal” dsm_content=” September rains and cool temperatures at harvest mitigated the hot, dry summer of 2016 here, allowing Volpaia to bring in a juicy Chianti Classico. Its red-cherry flavors are concentrated enough to absorb the vanilla spice gained during its two years in new French oak barrels, the wine maintaining energy and lift through the finish.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Ricasoli – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledil\u00e0” dsm_content=” Colledil\u00e0 is the most balanced of Ricasoli\u2019s three single-cru Gran Selezione labels we tasted from the 2016 vintage. Culled from sangiovese planted in calcareous soils, it offers flavors of ripe cherry, strawberry and pomegranate brightened by notes of menthol and dried florals. The wine picks up hints of tobacco and forest floor that add depth. Approachable now, it should age well, too.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Ricasoli – 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio” dsm_content=” This is a blend of sangiovese, with five percent each cabernet sauvignon and petit verdot, selected from the best parcels of this estate\u2019s 560 acres. The wine\u2019s ripe flavors of dark cherry and plum reflect the warmth of the 2015 vintage, its fruit tones enriched by subtle spice and loamy earth tones.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello Vicchiomaggio – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione La Prima” dsm_content=” Vicchiomaggio\u2019s 84 vineyard acres lie near the town of Greve in Chianti Classico\u2019s northern sector. In 2016, they rendered a wine with scents of pink petals, lavender and mint that lead into tart, citrus-tinged red berry flavors. Its vivid acidity and medium body make it a match for roast pork.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Bibbiano – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigne di Montornello” dsm_content=” Bibbiano elevated this wine from Riserva to Gran Selezione in the 2014 vintage. The estate is located in Chianti Classico\u2019s southern sector, where the clay soils tend to give powerful wines, but the Montornello vineyard has a northeast exposure and lighter, limestone-rich albarese soils that yielded a bright, high-toned wine in 2016. Raspy tannins frame its flavors of crunchy cherry and cranberry, notes of orange zest and cool green tree-sap highlighting its lean lines.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Ricasoli – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Roncicone” dsm_content=” This is the second release of Roncicone, produced with sangiovese from a 27-acre plot of vines planted between 1998 and 2000. It comes out of an extensive zoning study Francesco Ricasoli conducted over the 560 vineyard acres on his estate, which identified five main soil types. Roncicone\u2019s \u201cmarine deposit\u201d soils are a mix of sand, clay and pebbles that yielded a high-toned, redfruited wine in 2016, with fresh cherry and strawberry flavors accented by notes of menthol and lavender. The flavors fade a bit too quickly, leaving a lean and austere impression, but the project merits attention as it progresses in the coming years.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Tolaini – 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Montebello Sette” dsm_content=” The Tolaini estate sits in Chianti Classico\u2019s southernmost commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga, where the clayladen soils produced a velvety Gran Selezione in the warm and dry 2015 vintage. The wine, a pure sangiovese, unfolds with flavors of black cherry and dark plum accented by notes of toasted nuts and sweet spice gained during 18 months in French oak barriques. Hints of cherry pit and roasted mushroom lend a savory balance to the rich fruit and oak flavors.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Tolaini – 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Montebello Sette” dsm_content=” The Tolaini estate sits in Chianti Classico\u2019s southernmost commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga, where the clayladen soils produced a velvety Gran Selezione in the warm and dry 2015 vintage. The wine, a pure sangiovese, unfolds with flavors of black cherry and dark plum accented by notes of toasted nuts and sweet spice gained during 18 months in French oak barriques. Hints of cherry pit and roasted mushroom lend a savory balance to the rich fruit and oak flavors.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][\/dsm_faq][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” text_font_size=”17px” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA<\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][dsm_faq dsm_accordion_gap=”4px” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”16px” closed_header_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Badia a Coltibuono – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” Lively acidity and fine-grained tannins give a seamless structure to this wine\u2019s high-toned red berry flavors. The blend (sangiovese with ten percent of colorino, canaiolo and ciliegiolo) reflects this estate\u2019s emphasis on native Tuscan varieties, and vines of up to 40 years of age impart balance and concentration. A wine of classic elegance and restraint, it has the structure and freshness to improve over the next decade.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Fattoria Rod\u00e1no – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna Viacosta” dsm_content=” Enrico Pozzesi sources this sangiovese from Viacosta, a south-facing amphitheatershaped vineyard in Castellina in Chianti. The wine rested for three years in large oak casks, developing notes of tobacco, cured meat and black pepper that layer over its dark cherry and black currant fruit. With its powerful tannins, this will appeal to Brunello lovers.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello di Monsanto – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” The Bianchi family\u2019s Riserva fires on all cylinders in the 2016 vintage, unfolding with black cherry and red currant flavors framed by dusty tannins and laced with notes of thyme and lavender. The flavors are taut and precise, already highly expressive yet with the potential to age gracefully.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Cafaggio – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva Basilica Solat\u00eco” dsm_content=” This is a full-bodied sangiovese from a vineyard in Panzano. The wine aged for 30 months in Slavonian casks, developing dark cherry flavors balanced by notes of tobacco and roasted game. The wine\u2019s ripe, powerful tannins will benefit from a few years of cellaring.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Istine – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva Levigne” dsm_content=” Angela Fronti is a dynamic young winemaker who farms her high-elevation vineyards around Radda and Gaiole organically. She combines fruit from three vineyards for Riserva Levigne. Aged for 18 months in Slavonian oak casks, the wine shows the sunny character and power of the 2015 vintage in its flavors of dark cherry, menthol and thyme, while maintaining verve.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Rocca delle Mac\u00ece – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva Ser Gioveto” dsm_content=” Ser Gioveto was labeled as an IGT until this vintage. It includes ten percent each of cabernet sauvignon and merlot that impart flavors of black currant and dark plum. Those fruit flavors glide on smooth tannins refined during aging in French oak barriques, where the wine gained notes of chocolate and espresso that enhance its bold profile.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Villa La Pagliaia – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” This pure sangiovese from Chianti Classico\u2019s southern Castelnuovo Berardenga commune shows classic flavors of juicy morello cherry accented by notes of Tuscan herbs and framed by firm, ferrous tannins. Aged in large Slavonian casks for two years, the wine shows good freshness for this vintage, with plenty of mouthwatering acidity to preserve the flavors over the next several years.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Marchesi Antinori – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Marchese Antinori Tenuta Tignanello” dsm_content=” This is a plush and velvety Chianti Classico, with ample notes of toast, vanilla and baking spice on red cherry and plum tones. The wine shows good freshness and acidity, suggesting a few years in the cellar will allow the fruit and oak to further integrate.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Tenuta di Arceno – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” This 2,500-acre estate in Castelnuovo Berardenga, owned by California\u2019s Jackson Family Wines, sources grapes for its Riserva from south-facing blocks, where the fruit ripens into flavors of black raspberry, cassis and roasted red pepper. Ten months of aging in French oak barriques enriches those deep fruit tones with notes of dark chocolate, vanilla and peppery spice.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Cafaggio – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva Basilica San Martino” dsm_content=” Cafaggio\u2019s San Martino bottling offers a more international take on Chianti Classico than its Solat\u00eco (also recommended). This one includes a combined 20 percent of cabernets sauvignon and franc that add dark tones of blackberry and black currant to the wine, with hints of spice and polished tannins from 18 months in French Flavors of cherry, licorice and spice take on savory notes as this wine sits in the glass. The fruit (sangiovese with ten percent unnamed varieties) comes from the Fonterutoli estate in Castellina in Chianti, and the wine aged for one year in French oak barriques and tonneaux, half of which were new. Its dark and meaty flavors are a match for pasta in a rich rag\u00f9.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”La Sala – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” From Chianti Classico\u2019s northern commune of San Casciano Val di Pesa, this Riserva shows flavors of ripe black cherry that verge on sweetness, balanced by tangy acidity and notes of orange peel. Raspy tannins and notes of savory tomato skin give the wine a pleasant, rustic appeal.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello di Verrazzano – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” Verrazzano owns 105 vineyard acres in the Greve commune, where the limestone-rich soils yielded a concentrated Riserva in 2015. The wine rested in new French oak barrels for two years, developing dark spice notes that deepen its cherry flavors, and firm tannins that call for braised pork or grilled game.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Cafaggio – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” Sangiovese culled from vineyards in Panzano\u2019s Conca d\u2019Ora and aged for 18 months in Slavonian casks produced this rich, full-bodied wine. The flavors of dried cherry and blueberry jam reflect the warmth of the 2015 vintage; they are matched by powerful, meaty tannins that need hearty food, like braised beef cheek pappardelle.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello di Meleto – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna Poggiarso” dsm_content=” Snappy red cherry flavors take on notes of basil and cherry tomato in this medium-bodied Riserva.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Querciabella – 2015 Chianti Classico Riserva” dsm_content=” This sangiovese includes fruit from biodynamically farmed plots in the Greve, Gaiole and Radda. It shows good freshness for the vintage, with a pleasantly tart edge to the red and black cherry flavors, and muscular tannins that will benefit from a year or two of cellaring.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][\/dsm_faq][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” text_font_size=”17px” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] CHIANTI CLASSICO<\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][dsm_faq dsm_accordion_gap=”4px” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”16px” closed_header_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” locked=”off” sticky_enabled=”0″][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castagnoli – 2016 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Alfred Schefenacker\u2019s high-elevation vineyards in this 33-acre Castellina in Chianti estate produced a dense and savory wine in 2016, its flavors of cherry and red currants permeated with notes of roasted tomato and savory herbs. It shows good depth and persistence, finishing with bright notes of orange zest.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Istine – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Angela Fronti\u2019s annata bottling is bright and balanced, its snappy black-cherry flavors accented by notes of mint, fresh tobacco and wild thyme. She culls the sangiovese (100 percent) from the family\u2019s high-elevation vineyards in Radda and Gaiole, where cool evening breezes helped preserve fresh acidity even in the hot and dry 2017 vintage.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Querciabella – 2016 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” This comes from biodynamically farmed, high-elevation vineyards, and the wine\u2019s tart cherry and strawberry flavors capture the brightness of the 2016 vintage. Notes of peppery spice and crunchy herbs add to the appeal.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello dei Rampolla – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Maurizia Di Napoli\u2019s 2017 annata from her biodynamically farmed vineyards in Panzano offers succulent flavors of seeded red berries, with great verve and personality in the layers of lavender, rosemary and sage. The flavors persist on a long and balanced finish.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Riecine – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Grown in high-elevation vineyards in Gaiole-in-Chianti, this has a high-toned freshness, with flavors of red cherry and pomegranate buoyed by lively acidity. Notes of menthol and graphite add depth and dimension.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Rocca di Montegrossi – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Marco Ricasoli\u2019s rocky vineyards in Monti, a high-elevation subzone of Gaiole-in-Chianti, yielded a juicy, mouthwatering and concentrated Chianti Classico in the warm and dry 2017 vintage. Its flavors of black cherry and raspberry show an inner brightness and lift that meshes well with the mint and sage notes. The flavors stay taut through the finish and will complement a wide range of dishes.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Candialle – 2016 Chianti Classico La Misse di Candialle” dsm_content=” Husband-and-wife team Josephin Cramer and Jarkko Per\u00e4nen produced this succulent, energetic annata from just 22 acres of organically farmed sangiovese vines rooted in limestone-rich soils. They vinify the wine entirely in unlined concrete vats, giving an unimpeded expression to the flavors of fresh sour cherry, raspberry and orange peel. The mouthwatering acidity makes it a great wine for the dinner table.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castellare di Castellina – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Scents of lavender and violet signal a purple-fruited wine, its dark cherry and plum flavors layered with notes of cedar, thyme and oregano. The dark fruit feels ripe and warm, fortified by rich, meaty tannins.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Villa di Geggiano – 2016 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” From 50 acres in Castelnuovo Berardenga, this is packed with flavors of cherry and raspberry brightened by notes of lavender and mint. Dusty tannins weave through the wine, revealing hints of smoke and cedar as the wine takes on air.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Fattoria Rod\u00e1no – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” As with his Riserva, Enrico Pozzesi sticks to tradition for this Chianti Classico annata, a blend of sangiovese with ten percent of canaiolo and colorino. He ages the wine for 15 months in large Slavonian oak casks, giving a powerful wine with grippy, ferrous tannins and dark fruit flavors layered with notes of graphite and dried cherry. Decant it before serving to give those tannins time to soften.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Badia a Coltibuono – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Yields were down in the drought-stricken 2017 vintage, but the Stucchi-Prinetti family credits years of organic farming with improving the drought resistance of their vines. The 2017 Chianti Classico shows good freshness for the vintage, with delicate flavors of red cherry, tobacco and green peppercorn.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Borgo Scopeto – 2016 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Here\u2019s an approachable, easygoing Chianti Classico, with red cherry and pomegranate flavors accented by notes of crunchy herbs.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Famiglia Losi – 2015 Chianti Classico Querciavalle” dsm_content=” The Losi family traces its winemaking roots back to the late 19th century, when Tranquillo Losi worked the vines as a mezzadro (sharecropper) before buying vineyards in Castelnuovo Berardenga in 1954. The family retains a traditional approach with this wine, a blend of sangiovese with ten percent canaiolo that ages in large oak casks. It offers dark cherry and raspberry flavors laced with herbs and firm, fine-grained tannins.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Ruffino – 2016 Chianti Classico Tenuta Santedame” dsm_content=” Sourced from Castellina vineyards, this wine includes ten percent merlot and five percent cabernet sauvignon, adding a distinctive green-pepper note to the red berry and cherry flavors. Soft tannins and lively acidity give the wine an immediate appeal.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Certosa di Belriguardo – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” This is light and delicate for the warm 2017 vintage, its morello cherry flavors edged with notes of mint and thyme. A good choice for roast chicken.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Villa La Pagliaia – 2017 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” Notes of cedar and mint accent this wine\u2019s sour-cherry flavors. It\u2019s a pleasant match for pasta or pizza.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Viticcio – 2016 Chianti Classico” dsm_content=” This is dark and savory, with flavors of dried cherry, baked plum, tobacco, thyme and rosemary. Drink it now, as the fruit shows signs of fading. <\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_2″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][\/dsm_faq][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" In our Chianti Classico tasting panels this year, the Gran Selezione wines turned in their best performance to date, with 20 recommendations, 15 of those garnering exceptional scores. Most were from 2016 and 2015, two excellent vintages, which surely contributed to the successful showing. It\u2019s a bit of good news for a category that was born six years ago amidst controversy and skepticism. Even if you\u2019re an ardent Italian wine lover, you may be asking, \u201cWhat is Gran Selezione?\u201d It\u2019s a name the Chianti Classico Consorzio came up with for a new top tier that would sit above Riserva and annata in Chianti Classico\u2019s quality pyramid. Gran Selezione was born out of some producers\u2019 concerns that the rules for Riserva wines are too lax. The Consorzio also hoped that the new top-tier cat-egory would attract those making Toscana IGT wines back into the fold. Those \u201cSuper Tuscans\u201d include some of the region\u2019s most elite sangiovese-based wines. How does Gran Selezione differ from Riserva? Not as much as some producers had hoped it would, a shortcoming that created controversy from the start. Gran Selezione enforces slightly higher levels of alcohol and extract, and requires 30 months of aging to Riserva\u2019s 24. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":542,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[76,137],"tags":[130,131],"class_list":["post-1152","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-stories-behind-the-bottle","category-toscana","tag-chianti-classico","tag-gran-selezione"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1152","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1152"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1152\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1175,"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1152\/revisions\/1175"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/542"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1152"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1152"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/steeplejackwine.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1152"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Panzano, in the heart of Chianti Classico, it is vibrant and fresh, characteristics Manetti attributes to the significant diurnal shift. It offers taut, fine-grained tannins, some coming from 18 months of aging in French oak barrels (half new), yet the concentrated cherry and raspberry flavors absorb them. Though the wine is immediately appealing
for its sheer elegance and resonant red-fruit tones, its intense flavors and muscular tannins will benefit from a few years of cellaring.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Castello di Ama – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo” dsm_content=”
percent) and malvasia nera (seven percent). The wine rested for ten months in barriques (18 percent new), keeping the oak influence subtle as the wine developed a silky texture and finely knit flavors of tobacco leaf, toasted nuts and savory herbs. A note of menthol adds lift to the dark fruit and herb flavors, and the finish is long and elegant.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Marchesi Antinori – 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano” dsm_content=”
oak barriques.<\/p>” dsm_child_open_font_icon=”\uf5ce||fa||900″ dsm_child_close_font_icon=”\uf72f||fa||900″ dsm_open_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_close_icon_color=”#893727″ dsm_content_padding=”20px||||false|false” _builder_version=”4.27.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_item_font=”|700|||||||” header_item_text_color=”#000000″ closed_header_item_font=”|700|||||||” closed_header_item_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” parentOrderClass=”dsm_faq_1″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/dsm_faq_child][dsm_faq_child dsm_title=”Mazzei – 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Ser Lapo” dsm_content=”