Dellatorri, Chianti Riserva (Tuscany, Italy) 2008

 This is my first encounter with this wine, but we are off to a very good start together.  Appropriately fresh and tart, it nevertheless shows excellent balance, as the sweet, red cherry Sangiovese fruit easily smoothes over the wine’s acidity and coats the tannins as well.  Oak is notable but not obtrusive, and the overall impression is a very appealing one of fresh generosity.  Platinum award winner at the San Diego International Wine Competition.