Frescobaldi, Chianti Rufina Riserva (Tuscany, Italy) 2020

 The Sangiovese grape shows its vibrant best from vineyards in the Chianti region.  The Chianti Rufina district lies to the north of the Chianti Classico but many regard Rufina wines as the equal to most Classico bottlings. Frescobaldi’s Riserva Nipozzano is a Sangiovese-based wine from Chianti Rufina and shows exemplary style and character for a very affordable price.  This wine was fermented in traditional concrete vats and aged in barriques and shows a deft balance between fruit and oak.  The 2020 Riserva Nipozzano is sleek and stylish, offering layers of pure, ripe, cherry, raspberry and red plum fruits interwoven with lovely floral, herb, earth and spice elements. The multilayered flavors show brilliantly pure red cherry fruit of the Sangiovese backed by hints of raspberry, citrus peel, herbs, vanilla and baking spices. It is a delicious example of the invigorating quality of the Sangiovese grape.