An intense red, with an accent of vanilla shading the cherry, raspberry, woodsy and tobacco flavors. On the long finish, a resinous note emerges as this winds down. Although balanced, this still needs time to integrate the oaky elements. Drink now through 2033.
This medium-bodied red opens with aromas of menthol, ripe plum, violet and tobacco. The elegantly structured palate offers tart red cherry, star anise and coffee bean accompanied by polished, fine-grained tannins.
The 2018 Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Antinori shows the mid-weight style of the year nicely. Silky and aromatic, the 2018 is super-expressive right out of the gate. Dark red cherry, spice, menthol and leather build into the gracious, persistent finish. This is very nicely done.
Chianti Classico is the heart and soul of Tuscany, hailing from the rolling hills between Florence and Siena and proudly wearing its black rooster emblem on the bottle. Made primarily from the Sangiovese grape, it bursts with flavors of tart cherry, plum, dried herbs, and a touch of earthiness, all wrapped in lively acidity and gentle tannins. The region’s sunny days and cool nights give the wines balance, freshness, and a distinctly savory edge. Aging rules vary from basic Chianti Classico to Riserva and Gran Selezione, each offering deeper complexity and elegance. Pour a glass alongside pasta al ragù, grilled steak, or aged Pecorino, and you’ll understand why Chianti Classico is Italy’s eternal table companion—rustic yet refined, timelessly delicious.
Sangiovese is a red wine grape predominantly associated with Italy, particularly in the Tuscany region. Known for its high acidity and versatile nature, Sangiovese produces wines with bright red fruit flavors, including cherry and strawberry, along with floral and herbal notes. Famous Tuscan wines such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are primarily made from Sangiovese. The grape's character can vary depending on the winemaking style and the specific terroir, ranging from lighter, more approachable styles to complex, age-worthy wines with robust tannins and a distinct sense of place. Sangiovese wines are often praised for their food-friendly acidity and ability to express the unique characteristics of the regions where they are grown.