1 | Wine | Chianti, 2009

"The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva is striking. Succulent dark cherries, flowers, mint and licorice burst from the glass in this exuberant, sexy Riserva. The tannins are nearly buried by the opulent fruit, but the wine retains great balance, while avoiding any sense of heaviness. The 2009 captures the heat and richness of the year while never abandoning its classic sense of structure. This is a superb wine from Monsanto with plenty of upside potential. Sweet floral notes add an elegant, feminine touch to the finish."

"Bright, full ruby. High-toned aromas of red berries, violet and wild herbs. Dense and sweet but also juicy, with a creamy, fine-grained texture to the complex flavors of red and black fruits and exotic dried herbs. Nicely energetic Chianti, finishing with sweet tannins and excellent length."

"Aromas of dark berries and cherries, with hints of spices. Full body, with velvety tannins and lots of plums and chocolate character. Lovely soft texture."

"The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva boasts considerable richness in its powerful, dense fruit. Over the last few years the estate has eliminated new oak barrels, and what comes through most in the 2009 is a generous, pliant personality that is quite appealing. Super ripe red cherries burst from the expressive finish."

"Deep ruby in color. Rich bouquet of cherries, plums, and iris. Deep cherry and leather flavors with subtle wood notes. Supple tannins, good acidity, and a lingering finish."

"This is a decidedly sexy, voluptuous style that retains plenty of aromatic nuances. It is another terrific entry-level wine from Rocca di Castagnoli."