Villa Cerna, Chianti Classico (Tuscany, Italy) 2010

Andrea Cecchi and his brother represent the fourth generation of the family making wine.  They have four estates, one in Umbria, and three in their home base of Tuscany, including this one, Villa Cerna.  Located in the Chianti Classico region, it is their ancestral home, which probably explains why wines from this estate are always so stunning.  They are traditionally proportioned — not fruit bombs — and reflect the spice and savory quality unique to Chianti Classico.  Villa Cerna’s 2010 Chianti Classico Riserva, from a great vintage, is especially noteworthy.  The earthy non-fruit elements complement its dark cherry-like nuances.  The flavors explode in the mouth, yet the wine is not overdone, nor heavy.  The tannins are refined so it’s easy to enjoy now with a hearty pasta dish, but its balance suggests it will evolve beautifully. In short, it’s a gorgeous wine — and a bargain to boot.