Castello di Monsanto 2017 Chianti Classico Riserva

This wine is our most popular Chianti and always receives 90+ scores! When owner Fabrizio Bianchi purchased this ancient estate 1962, he began a transformation that continues to this day. The vineyards have all been revitalized and the winemaking is modern and up-to-date. He was one of the first to eliminate white grapes from his Chianti blend. The blend is 90% Sangiovese, 7% Canaiolo and 3% Colorino. Instead of large Slavonian casks the wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barriques.

James Suckling scored this 95 points saying "Lots of ripe cherries and berries with undergrowth and mushroom undertones, as well as ash. It’s full-bodied with round, creamy tannins and a medium-chewy finish. A solid Chianti Classico here. Give it a year or two to soften. Real deal."

The Wine Advocate scored this 92 points saying "This is one of the icon wines of the greater Chianti Classico area. The hot vintage Castello di Monsanto 2017 Chianti Classico Riserva shows width and depth with plenty of dark fruit, cherry, blackberry and plum. The wine is steady and bright with polished tannins and a mid-weight approach that proves its overall versatility and adaptability. It is ideal for a plate of ricotta-filled gnudi."

Wine Spectator scored this 91 points saying "An intense aroma of iron and graphite leads off, followed by black cherry, black currant, leather and forest floor flavors. This is well-built, with the dusty 2017 tannins, but also a lot of juicy fruit. The dry finish is compact. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Best from 2021 through 2038."