Chianti Classico Riserva 2012 75cl

Winemaker Alessandro Cellai is very happy with this vintage and claims that it is among the most elegant he has made. The 2012 Chianti Classico Riserva is a delicious and forthcoming Sangiovese that evolves slowly in the glass. As it does, it puts forward aromas of wild berry, pressed rose petal, wet earth and dried tobacco. The quality of fruit is bright, tonic and zesty. In the mouth, the wine presents silky tannins and long persistency.  I was lucky to visit Castellare di Castellina on what may be the best day of the year to come to this estate at the heart of the Chianti Classico appellation. The afternoon I came, Trebbiano grapes had just been harvested to make Vin Santo del Chianti Classico. Each cluster was harvested with its wooden stem still intact. This way, the clusters are attached to metal hooks for the long drying process that will concentrate the sugars and aromatic intensity. A group of young workers labored furiously to hang all the grapes in what looked like massive curtains of grapes from wooden rafters. It was a beautiful site. Winemaker Alessandro Cellai presented his new vintages and added a few older wines to my flights. It is my pleasure to produce those notes here.

A brawny style, with black cherry and blackberry flavors aligned with earth, tar and leather notes. Exhibits a distinctive earthiness, with wild herb and underbrush accents. Burly tannins complete the finish. Best from 2017 through 2024. 1,193 cases made.

A fresh and tangy red with cherry, dark berry and hints of bark on the nose and palate. Full body, crisp acidity and a long and flavorful finish. Drink now.