Castello di Meleto, Chianti Classico DOCG (Tuscany, Italy) 2016

 Castello di Meleto, a top Chianti Classico producer based in Gaiole, has abandoned new French oak barrels for aging their Chianti Classico and eliminated the international varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, in the blend.  Instead, the wine is 100 percent Sangiovese that has been aged in large old Slavonian oak barrels.  The result is a splendid balance of fruity and savory elements.  Not a fruit bomb, this juicy and bright wine has plenty of herbal, “not just fruit” elements that make Chianti Classico so appealing.  It’s perfect for current consumption this winter with hearty pasta or even a rotisserie chicken.