Castello di Verrazzano, Chianti Classico Riserva (Tuscany, Italy) 2011

Castello di Verrazzano’s Chianti Classico Riserva comes from grapes grown in their vineyards that are at a higher elevation on the slope than other parcels.  The erosion and drainage at that part of the slope always results in concentrated grapes that produce powerful wines.  Despite the power — of which there is plenty — there is great refinement in their 2011 Chianti Classico Riserva.  The aromatics are fabulous and draw you in immediately.  The flavors — red fruit, herbs and earth — spread across the palate and impart grandeur to the wine.  It’s a broad, long wine that’s best cellared for a few years to allow the components to come together.