A marvelous Chianti, the 1997 Tenuta Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva is aged 14 months in small oak barriques and one year in bottle. It reveals sur-maturite (over-ripeness) in its strawberry/cassis-scented nose. Full-bodied, with low acidity, superb concentration of black fruit, spice box, cedar, earth, and smoke, it is a wine of exceptional extract and marvelous balance that reflects the vintage's low acid, opulent/voluptuous personality. This Chianti should drink well for 10-15 years. Bravo!
Importer: Remy Amerique, New York, NY; tel. (212) 399-0200.