2016 Chianti Classico Riserva
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Tasting notes
Radda in Chianti. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Merlot. Deep ruby. Markedly nutty oak, tar and cherry-fruit nose. Sweet cherry mixed with lots of tangy acidity and bags of grainy tannins, but the tarry top notes on the finish suggest this is developing fast. (WS)
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva is a beautiful wine that does an excellent job of stringing together the many varied components of what makes a great Chianti Classico and puts them all together in a single bottle. The wine is balanced and intense with a long bouquet that starts off with black primary fruit and then trails off into a continuum of spice, leather, tar and tilled earth. There are many levels to consider here. The mouthfeel is equal parts structured, fresh and succulent, and these three factors fit together with precision. This is a terrific wine and one that I will readily drink with a grilled veal steak with my favorite roasted potatoes. The blend is 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot. Production is 50,000 bottles strong.
The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva is bold, powerful and explosive, with superb depth and tons of intensity. The addition of 20% Merlot in the blend and copious new French oak give the Riserva a decidedly modern, opulent feel, and yet all the elements are impeccably balanced throughout. This is Brancaia at their best.
This is a very spicy Chianti Classico Riserva that shows toasty oak, dark chocolate, coffee beans and a backdrop of plum paste and Christmas pudding. Full-bodied and decadent on the palate with ripe and round tannins and a structured finish. Drink from 2023.