2013 - Chianti Classico Le Baroncole Riserva, San Giusto a Rentennano

This stunning wine hit me out of left field. The 2013 Chianti Classico Riserva le Baròncole (97% Sangiovese and 3% Canaiolo) is extraordinary and is among the finest editions ever produced. I loved the crisp and pristine nature of the bouquet that gives ample and equal billing to wild berry, toasted almond and blue flower aromas. That Sangiovese typicity is expressing itself at full volume. Because 2013 is a slightly cooler vintage, you get the structure and the acidity necessary for ten years of cellar aging or more. This is a beautiful achievement.

The 2013 Chianti Classico Riserva Le Baroncole wraps around the palate with succulent red cherry, plum, spice, tobacco and leather. The new oak has come down in favor of larger barrels and casks, which allows the purity of the fruit to come through loud and clear. In the past, the Baroncole was often penalized by excessive new oak, but that is no longer the case today. Readers who haven't tasted the Baroncole in a few years will be in for a real surprise. This is a superb effort. An unusually suave, silky Chianti Classico of pure finesse, the 2013 Baroncole is pure class. Rose petal and red berry notes punctuate the bright, expressive finish.