Querciabella, Chianti Classico (Tuscany, Italy) 2018

 There is a reason that basic Chianti Classicos are so affordable.  In trade tastings, I have found as a group they are less impressive than, say, the lesser classified growths of Bordeaux or even the village wines of the lower Rhône Valley, which is what makes this Querciabella such a delight in its quality and price.  The producers have done an excellent job of balancing the natural tannic raspiness of Sangiovese – desirable to a degree – with ripe cherry fruit without sacrificing freshness and acidity.  While I don’t expect it to improve that much with age – it’s very drinkable at the moment – I’m sure that it will be enjoyable when we are beginning to drink the 2030 vintage.