Monsanto’s 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva is simply beautiful. The opulent, forward fruit that is typical of the year is present, but a firm sense of structure keeps things from going over the top. If that sounds appealing, believe me, it is. Dark red fruit, flowers, minerals and spices come together beautifully in this serious Riserva. A round, harmonious finish rounds things off in style. Readers will have a hard time doing better for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Monsanto is a reference-point producer for fine Chianti. The estate’s top bottlings have a brilliant track record, but these entry-level wines deliver almost as much pleasure at much more accessible prices.Importer: Moet Hennessy USA, New York, NY; tel. (212) 251-8200

This ripe, juicy red is full of sanguine notes, along with black cherry and blackberry flavors. The tannins are well-coated by fleshy fruit and it lingers with a long, spicy aftertaste. Best from 2012 through 2022. 12,000 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add