2020 Chianti Classico Castello di Brolio Riserva
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Tasting notes
Full-on classic Chianti that isn't smothered by oak or overripeness. Carries the alcohol well, and gives delicious bitter red fruit as well as leathery, farmy notes that have a horseiness that might be brett-derived, but in context, this works well – the balance of flavour is very appealing. The tannins are much more supple than most Chiantis, so this can be enjoyed now. (RH)
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Di Brolio pours a jeweled red hue with a hint of orange and is elegant in the glass, offering aromas of candied red cherries, red flowers, mint, and sweet forest herbs. Medium-bodied, it’s approachable and finely textured on the palate, with supple tannins, refreshing, evenly balanced acidity, and a lightly salty finish. This is a very appealing and approachable offering with a lot of finesse that’s drinking well now. Drink 2024-2036.
This is the wine that blew me away last year (when I tasted the excellent 2019 vintage) and assured me of the innovative work now underway at Barone Ricasoli. Today, tasting the 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio Roncicone, I am reminded of the quality fruit obtained from this special 10-hectare site with marine fossils mixed within its sandy topsoil. Showing brilliant clarity and focus, this carefully oak-aged Sangiovese offers rose, dried cherry, campfire ash and delicate mineral tones. This wine paints a beautiful portrait of this grape. Production is 10,000 bottles.
The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà offers up bright red toned fruit mixed with hints of blood orange, white pepper, mint and kirsch that lend a palpable exotic flair. There's a bit of new oak sweetness, but it suits the wine. Give this a year or two to soften.