1 | Wine | Tuscany, $10 to $20, 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."

"The 2009 Torre di Ciardo is Merlot with a dash of Sangiovese aged in cement and used, neutral oak. Dark blue and black fruit, licorice and spices are some of the many notes that emerge from this juicy, full-bodied wine. The 2009 boasts exceptional balance, with polished tannins that round out a gorgeous finish."

"The 2009 Villa Antinori is a pretty, mid-weight wine laced with dark red berries, flowers and sweet spices. Nothing in particular stands out, just the wine’s lovely depth, balance and overall sense of harmony. This is a fabulous wine for the money."

"Boasting dark cherry and berry aromas and flavors, this polished red is vibrant and harmonious. Lingers on the finish, with a tight, fruit- and spice-filled aftertaste."

"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."

"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."