Produced from vines that are up to 80 years old (hence the name “The First”), this firmly concentrated wine is solid, rich and powerful. The fruit has sweet black cherry flavors and layers of integrated wood to give balance. An impressive wine, this should age well over 10 years or more. Editors’ Choice. —R.V.
— R.V.
(12/31/2002)
From Greve in Chianti at the heart of the Tuscan wine zone, this 100% Merlot delivers a vibrant ruby color and good intensity of aromas. You’ll get plump cherry, red currants, sweet spice and nutmeg. It would make an excellent companion to roasted chicken with mushrooms and wild rice. FSM stands for “Federico Secondo Matta” and this is the first vintage of the wine.
— M.L.
(11/1/2009)
Highly complex and intriguing, given that it’s also quite rich, extracted and modern. The color is violet, while the nose is bloated with cured meat, vanilla and dark cherry fruit. Rather thick and chewy, but balanced by proper acidity. A gem of wine, with a luscious mouthfeel.
— W.E.
(4/1/2005)
Rich and ripe, with a bit of prune, mincemeat and tobacco. Very well put together, with blackberry and dark plum flavors floating on wide tannins that are present but not piercing. Finishes smooth and full, with likable notes of dark chocolate.
— M.S.
(9/1/2006)
An elegant, balanced wine produced at the 10-year-old castle belonging to the Matta family. Fruit dominates, black and sweet with soft tannins and perfumes of violets. A delicious wine that should age well over the next five years. —R.V.
— R.V.
(12/31/2002)
Asian spice and vanilla are the most immediate aromas but just past them are plum, prune and fresh blackberry. The wine has grit and sophistication and a smooth, velvety feel in the mouth that helps elevate the overall experience.
— M.L.
(9/1/2008)
Riserva La Prima is an elegant and traditional Chianti Classico (made with 100% Sangiovese) with good acidity, well integrated wood and bright cherry notes. It’s well put together with medium intensity, and an easy, no-fuss appeal with a clear and compact finish.
— M.L.
(6/1/2009)
Expensive for what you get. The nose delivers cherries and mint, but also a shot of lacquer and/or chemical. Very sweet and bulky, with cotton candy, cherry and cola flavors. Creamy in terms of feel, with a long finish. Of note: Our panel was not in agreement on this wine, thus the upper-midlevel score.
— W.E.
(4/1/2005)