The 2004 Chianti Classico Querciabella is a beautifully layered, expressive wine bursting with sweet dark fruit intermingled with subtle licorice, earth and toasted oak notes. Medium in body, it offers outstanding overall balance, an inviting, open personality and sweet, silky tannins to round of the finish, setting a new benchmark for elegance in Chianti Classico. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2017. Importer: Maison Marques & Domaines, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 587-2000

A firm, fruity red, with oak-tinged black currant and a hint of roasted spice. Medium-bodied, with good spicy fruit flavors and a firm mineral finish. Gorgeous and subtle. This estate is going places. Best after 2006. 11,600 cases made, 3,500 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add

The nose is rich and opulent, but it is also very ripe—just shy of too ripe. Thick and broad aromas of black cherry essence, smoked ham, leather, tobacco and beet root are direct and generous. The wine has raw intensity overall and cool freshness on the finish.——M.L.(11/1/2007)—— 87