Classic grape of Chianti and other great Tuscan wine, sangiovese has tart berry-cherry flavors with notes of herbs, spice, and damp earth. Marked more by crisp acidity than big, chewy tannins, sangiovese is nonetheless considered a classically structured grape variety. Found mainly in Chianti, but also the basis for other important Italian wines. Brunello di Montalcino is a specific clone of sangiovese, the variety called Brunello. Successful in Argentina, but California has not yet gotten the knack.
A fluid and supple red, yet offers grainy tannins to support cherry, raspberry and spice flavors. On the slimmer side, yet balanced. Best from 2013 through 2019. 15,000 cases imported.
Fragrant black fruit and oak on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a clean, fruit and vanilla finish. Nicely balanced. Best after 2009. 5,900 cases made. –JS
The 2009 Chianti Classico, 100% Sangiovese, is a gorgeous, deep wine endowed with serious richness. Dark plums, black cherries, licorice, new leather and menthol are some of the many notes that take shape in the glass. A firm, structured finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.
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.
The 2009 Chianti Rufina Riserva Nipozzano is very pretty. Veins of minerality support an expressive core of dark red berries in this silky, long Chianti. The 2009 impresses for its persistence and fine overall balance. Ideally, the 2009 is enjoyed while the fruit retains its vibrancy. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.
A deep, ruby red with an intense and persistent fragrance of mature red fruit. It’s a well-structured, smooth wine, with soft tannins and distinct notes of red fruit.
A juicy, rich wine, offering lots of fruit. Full and velvety, with sliced plum and chocolate flavors. A big Chianti Classico. Needs a little time to mellow. Best after 2010. 11,665 cases made. –JS
Color: Bright ruby red. Bouquet: Intense, mature fruit aromas. Taste: Rich, well structured, berry fruit flavors. Serving Suggestions: This wine is particularly well suited to meat and first courses.