Da Vinci, Chianti (Tuscany, Italy) 2008

 Over the years, I have been underwhelmed by the Chianti wines produced by the Cantine Leonardo da Vinci, but this new release pleasantly surprised me.  It has considerable weight for a “straight” Chianti (as opposed to a Chianti Classico) as well as richness of texture, with a dose of fine tannin on the rear palate appropriate for a Sangiovese wine.  The low-key aromas and flavors suggest cherry and plum, and the wine has some fruitiness of expression — but being a Chianti, it is not really what you might describe as a fruity red.  The wine is 90 percent Sangiovese and 10 percent Merlot, the Merlot no doubt making a significant contribution to the plum flavor and rich texture; partial aging in American oak barrels is also a factor.  The quality is particularly noteworthy considering that the production of this wine is 130,000 cases. Enjoy this while it is young.