The Sangiovese and Merlot in this blend were fermented separately in concrete vats and the wines were then aged for 12 months, the Merlot in large oak casks and the Sangiovese in French oak barrels. After blending, the wine was aged two additional years in bottle. This 2008 Chianti Classico has a lovely deep plum-red color, forward spicy dark fruit aromas with hints of toasted French oak. The flavors are dry and ripe with full refined tannins, 14.5% alcohol and good length through the finish. Loaded with plum and black cherry, this is a Chianti to drink now or for aging further.
Tenuta di Vignole, Chianti Classico (Tuscany, Italy) 2008
By Gerald D. Boyd