Chianti Classico Riserva PRĪMUM 2021
The 2021 Riserva from this San Donato estate has settled into balance a year on, its Cabernet Sauvignon now more seamlessly integrated. The nose is perfumed and delicate, hovering between fresh violets and potpourri, with camphor and oolong tea adding a fragrant, ethereal lift. Rose petals appear immediately on the entry, followed not by any whole-bunch candied sweetness but by pristine strawberry fruit. These are framed by crunchy, sandy tannins derived from Sillano formation and alberese soils, well distributed through semi-translucent matrix. The finish lingers with candied angelica root and light sambuca notes from the Cabernet, leaving an impression that is fragrant, tightly woven with tannins yet fresh and composed. Score: 95
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione “PASQUINO” PRĪMUM 2019
Retasted in 2019, the Gran Selezione Pasquino no longer shows quite the refinement it did a year ago, though it remains full of charm. The nose shimmers with energy, its wild raspberry and strawberry fruit enlivened by green peppercorn, dried ginger and ginseng, a brightness befitting pure Sangiovese grown at 400 m asl. The same fruit carries onto the palate, appealing if not especially transparent, bristling with tannin and acidity – reflecting its calcareous flysch soils – and laced with peppery tones. There is a definite natural-wine edge, though handled well, the palate showing good weight and closing with a pleasing green cardamom spice. Score: 94