Vibrant dark cherry is handsomely balanced against toasty oak in this elegant bottling. The solid fruit wears coffee accents and a mineral note; bright acidity keeps the fruit and palate lively. Finishes long with tart cherry flavors and solid, even tannins. With the new DOCG laws, this former Super Tuscan Vino da Tavola is now a Chianti Classico Riserva.
— W.E.
(4/1/2001)
The ripe, lean, smooth fruit is complemented by tobacco and cedar accents. Has a refined feel and classic tartness to the cherry flavors. Tight now, the full tannins on the finish can use a year or two to resolve, but handsome tar and licorice accents already show, and the solid components will knit themselves together well with a little time.
— W.E.
(4/1/2001)