Tenuta di Lilliano, Chianti Classico Riserva (Tuscany, Italy) 2013

Tenuta di Lilliano is an exceptional Chianti estate located at Castellina in Chianti. Their vineyards lie at a 1000 foot elevation on clay/limestone soils and are mostly devoted to Sangiovese.  It was Princess Eleonora Ruspoli Berlingieri who began bottling Lilliano’s wines in 1958 and the Ruspoli family continues to manage the estate.  The 2013 Lilliano Chianti Classico Riserva is a lovely example. The nose shows pure red cherry and plum tones with hints of violets, tobacco, porcini mushrooms and subtle baking spices. The red cherry and plum fruits dominate the palate and are enhanced by elements of black cherry, earth, tobacco and spice.  This is exciting Chianti, with the brightness and purity that defines the best of the appellation.  The vivid cherry fruit carries through the long finish.  Delicious now, it will cellar well for another decade.  A blend of  Sangiovese (95%) and Merlot (5%).