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SKU 891395
$29.90/bottle
Out of stock
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This is a very solid, full-bodied riserva with firm and chewy yet fine-grained tannins that are nicely layered and intense. Very drinkable now, but a year or two of bottle age will soften it. Drink or hold.
The name of this grape, meaning 'blood of Jove' conjures up evocative images of long dead civilizations, and gives the Sangiovese varietal a sense of the holy, the sacred, the special. Indeed, this particular type of Italian grape has been cultivated and processed for thousands of years, and is said to be the original favorite grape varietal of the Romans, and the Etruscans before them. Throughout history, vintners have continued to plant this varietal, and they continue to produce wonderful wines to this day. The long bunches of very dark, round fruit are treasured by fine wineries in Italy and a few other places around the world, and when young, these grapes are lively – full of strawberry flavors and a little spiciness. However, it is when they are aged in oak that they take on some truly special flavors and aromas, as seen in some of the finest wines of the Old World.
Country
Italy
There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.
Region
Tuscany
The central Italian region of Tuscany is widely understood to be one of the world's most famous and highly regarded wine regions. The beautiful rolling hillsides and medieval towns and castles which are a key feature of the area are also home to many of Europe's finest wineries, and extremely high quality vineyards growing the distinctive Sangiovese and Vernaccia grape varietals which are the flavorful backbone of Tuscany's wonderful red and white wines. For almost three thousand years, this region has been recognized as an ideal home for wine production on a large scale, and the ancient Etruscans, Greeks and Romans all noticed that fine grape varietals flourished on the unique soils and under the hot sunshine which typifies the area. Today, Tuscany is home to a wide range of wines, from the traditional to the complex, but all dedicated to excellent flavors and aromas, and maintaining the region's international reputation.
Appellation
Chianti Classico
Chianti Classico stands out for its rich history, exceptional terroir, and distinctive winemaking traditions. Centered around the Sangiovese grape, these wines are renowned for their vibrant acidity, lively cherry and floral notes, and a signature earthy character. What sets it apart is the stringent production regulations, requiring a minimum of 80% Sangiovese, ensuring a regional identity. The iconic black rooster on the label symbolizes the commitment to quality, distinguishing Chianti Classico from other Chianti subzones.
The wines undergo a minimum aging period of 12 months, with some oak aging, resulting in a harmonious balance between fruit expression and nuanced complexity. This meticulous approach highlights the region’s dedication to preserving authenticity and showcasing the unique characteristics of its terroir.
JS94pts
James Suckling
This is a very solid, full-bodied riserva with firm and chewy yet fine-grained tannins that are nicely layered and intense. Very drinkable now, but a year or two of bottle age will soften it. Drink or hold.
WA93pts
Wine Advocate
Sporting broad shoulders and a brawny texture, the 2018 Chianti Classico Riserva Berardenga is one of those wines that you can drink throughout the entire meal from antipasto, to pasta to the meat dish. This Riserva offers dark fruit, ripe cherry, plum and soft concentration throughout. Its ample textual fiber is loosened up and refreshed by the pretty vein of crisp acidity that is so characteristic of Sangiovese.
WS93pts
Wine Spectator
Dusty tannins set the stage for this cherry and wild herb-inflected red. Boasts plenty of fruit, orange zest and iron, yet still has to reveal all its charms. Compact finish in the end, but be patient. Best from 2024 through 2042. 5,833 cases made.
VM93pts
Vinous Media
The 2018 Chianti Classico Riserva is a powerful, brooding wine. Readers will have to be patient with the 2018, as it needs time to soften. The tannins are especially potent today. Time brings out a whole range of black cherry, plum, gravel, spice, game and leather notes. The Riserva spent 16 months in oak of various sizes.
WE90pts
Wine Enthusiast
Ripe plum, French oak and violet aromas come to the forefront. The dense palate offers dried cherry, licorice and roasted coffee bean alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2025.
