The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva Beatrice emerges from the glass with dark red cherries, sweet herbs, licorice and tobacco. The Beatrice is 95% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, which gives the wine much of its tannic spine and overall structure. The Beatrice is a bigger wine than the straight Riserva, but it isn’t appreciably more complex. If anything, I have a slight preference for the straight Riserva because of its sheer drinkability. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.
Importer: Massanois Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 470-6769