There’s lots of toast on the nose and palate of this very New Worldish Chianti, but there’s no denying the appeal of the blackberry, espresso and bitter-chocolate elements. Gracefully broad-shouldered, it packs in a lot of flavor. The long, black licorice-tinged finish bears full, but smooth, tannins. Drink now through 2004.
— W.E.
(4/1/2001)
Hailing from a relatively unknown section of Tuscany, near Grosetto, this wine is definitely sun-baked and stewy, but it also has brazen blackberry and plum fruit and a forceful, ripe finish. It’s not the kind of wine you come across daily, so remember the name: Monteregio di Massa Marittima.
— M.S.
(10/1/2004)
Quite fruit driven, even a touch candied, there’s still much appeal in this wine’s fruitcake and plum aromas and the palate’s sweet-and-sour fruit with mild oak shadings. The balanced mouthfeel and easy tannins on the finish wrap up this ready-to-drink package.
— W.E.
(4/1/2001)
There’s a lot of earthy, meaty qualities to the nose and a lot of cedar as well. The flavors of black cherry and red licorice carry the mildest tartness. Overall it’s lean, tight and still a bit tannic. Give it a few more years.
— W.E.
(8/1/2002)
Although the nose is a little hard to read, the supple mouthfeel and focused tart cherry flavors make this a pleasing and quite affordable red. Has enough depth to keep it engaging and a clean finish; a great choice for everyday drinking.
— W.E.
(4/1/2001)
This blend of 80% Primitivo and 20% Sangiovese has widespread appeal, particularly for those who like their wines smoldering and dark. One reviewer described the bouquet of blackberries and smoky wood as “a sweet forest fire”; the same dark fruit and charred oak flavors follow through on the palate and on the back end. Best Buy.
— C.S.
(5/1/2002)
The bouquet is tight, with cherry and cranberry fruit and a touch of milk chocolate poking through. The mouth has a chalky feel along with plum and currant flavors. There really isn’t much more to say about this wine. It has a dry oakiness at its base and only modest richness. —M.S.
— M.S.
(12/31/2002)
An upfront and easy personality characterizes this Riserva Chianti. The wine’s aromas are not particularly complex but do include fundamentals such as cherry, spice and vanilla. It’s a medium-bodied wine that would pair with white meat or pasta.
— M.L.
(5/1/2009)