“This is my first sample of a Gran Selezione by Querciabella. Made with certified organic fruit (and sporting a hefty price tag), the 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Querciabella draws its fruit from the Ruffoli Vineyard in Greve in Chianti with vines planted in schistous galestro and sandstone soils at a cool 500 meters in elevation. This vintage comes off as open and accessible with warm-vintage fruit, tobacco, crushed stone and dried rose. There is a hint of soft cherry ripeness. The wine comes in a heavy glass bottle with 4,000 of them made.”

“Readers looking for a serious, yet polished style will love the 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva. Dark layers of menthol, licorice, black cherry, and incense intertwine and unfold in the glass. Full and generous with red and black fruit, it has a remarkable weightlessness while simultaneously delivering beautiful concentration. With ripe tannins, notes of blood orange zest, red plum, and salty earth, and a refreshing snap of acidity on the finish, it is approachable in its youth and will continue to improve over the coming 10-15 years. This is an outstanding wine to snap up.”

“The 2020 Chianti Classico is impressive and pure, with ripe black cherry, a hint of blue fruit, violets, and sweet herbs. It is medium to full-bodied, with supple fruit throughout, fine grained tannins, and a polished feel. It displays fresh acidity without any harsh edges, but it is mouthwatering and compels returning for more. This beautiful wine from Querciabella is drinking well now, and I imagine will continue to improve over the coming decade or more.”

“This supple red is highlighted by black currant, blackberry, plum, Mediterranean herbs and leather. Shows fine intensity and a lively structure that keeps this delineated and long on the earthy finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Drink now through 2038.”

“The 2019 Chianti Classico (100% Sangiovese) is laced with the essence of red/purplish berry fruit, spice, cedar and floral notes. Readers will find a classic expression of both the vintage and the house style in this super-appealing mid-weight Classico.”