Marchese Antinori, Chianti Classico Riserva (Tuscany, Italy) 2015

The category of Chianti Classico Riserva can be bewildering for consumers, as it includes terrific wines of lofty seriousness — but also rather unserious wines at relatively low prices (because all one needs to do to gain the designation is grow the grapes in a designated location and then age them for a sufficient duration).  This example definitely falls into the former category, with quite deep and saturated color, forceful fruit flavors, serious backing from acidity, oak and tannin, and a finish that won’t let go for nearly a full minute.  The addition of 10% Cabernet to a base of 90% Sangiovese certainly amps up the power here, yet the wine’s freshness and acidic tang keeps it clear that we’re still in Chianti Classico.  Excellent now, but built to improve for several more years.  A Double Gold Award winner at the 2019 Toast of the Coast International Wine Competition.