Over the years I have been an outspoken advocate of what does and what does not matter on a wine label, and when it comes to Chianti there is a word that defines a separation in quality.  When you see the word “Classico” behind the word Chianti it means the wine is definitely in a class above anything solely labeled Chianti.

Usually the Sangiovese grape has fresh fruity flavors of strawberry and a little spiciness, but can take on oaky, even tarry, flavors with barrel aging. In 2014 the fruit was bigger and bolder in flavor showing less of a strawberry character leaning more towards black cherry nuances and freshly tilled soil. The tannic structure may be a bit large but will handle acidic dishes like fresh Pomodoro sauce or Chicken Cacciatore with ease.

Excellent | $22 | 13.0% ABV