2008 Wine

The 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva is a very pretty, centered wine. Dark cherries, plums, spices, menthol, cedar, game and tobacco are some of the notes that emerge from the glass. The 2008 is an understated Riserva that impresses for its length, focus and balance. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023.

Deep crimson, with brick red hues. the 2008 Jester Cabernet shows liquorice, nutmeg and cassis notes which provide a lift to the subtle hints of French oak. Well rounded on the palate, the firm tannins are complemented by nuances of chocolate, blackcurrant and earth. Food Match: Morrocan style lamb curry with eggplant and chickpeas

Sleek and well-focused, with appealing aromas of red currant and toasty tomato leaf that lead to rich flavors of plum, mocha and cedar. Tannins firm up the finish. Drink now through 2017.

Clearly of classified growth quality, Lalande-Borie is produced by the winemaking team of "super second" Château Ducru Beaucaillou. Initially purchased to be incorporated into Ducru, its supple, graceful style was just too good to not warrant its own voice. The 2008 Lalande-Borie is deliciously perfumed with notes of wild violets, rose, red berry and a hint of Provençal herbs; on the palate, though not immense or intense, the flavors are nevertheless strikingly lush, deep, and refined. 14 months of aging in French oak barrels (1/3 new) provides a finishing polish of toasty vanilla oak.