The 2006 Chianti Classico Riserva is a big, super-ripe wine loaded with black cherries, blueberries, French oak and spices. Stylistically, this is a concentrated, voluminous Riserva with terrific persistence and balance. It is one of the finest wines I have tasted here in some time. The Riserva spent 24 months in French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

Aromas of dark fruits, with hints of basil, lead to toasty oak, green coffee bean and berry flavors. Full-bodied and refined, with silky tannins. Best from 2010 through 2015. 32,000 cases made, 18,000 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add