The 2006 Chianti Classico Riserva Le Baroncole is supremely elegant in the way it marries superb density and richness of its fruit with a firm backbone that gives the wine freshness as well as balance. Dark cherries meld into flowers, spices, licorice and menthol as this elegant Chianti Classico opens up in the glass. The tannins build impressively on the finish. Although the wine is delicious today, it is sure to continue to gain complexity in the coming years. This is a great effort. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2021. My tasting last year with proprietor Luca Martini di Cigala was an eye-opener. Aside from his humility – which always leaves a deep impression – I was simply blown away by the quality of the 2006s, which were in barrel at the time. His 2006 Percarlo was glorious that day, but it won’t be released until next year. In the meantime, these new releases should keep the estate’s fans, of which I am one, more than happy. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Giuliana Imports, Boulder CO; (303) 547-6343, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119