Crognolo 2016 Toscana IGT, Tenuta Sette Ponti

The Tenuta Sette Ponti has become famous for producing the opulent and rich Oreno Super Tuscan. But their very affordable Second wine is a perpetual over achiever! The fabulous Super Tuscan blend, Crognolo is 100% Sangiovese from their hillside vineyards in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone. Yields are kept low with a green harvest in May and the grapes are carefully hand sorted in the winery for a 20 day slow maceration. Aging is in French Allier oak barrels for 14 months.

Wine Spectator scored this 2016 92 points saying "Bright, bursting with black cherry, plum, leather, menthol and spice flavors. Smooth and harmonious, with fine grip on the earth- and mineral-tinged finish. Sangiovese and Merlot. Drink now through 2028."

and James Suckling scored this 95 points saying "Aromas of rosewood, cherries and blueberries follow through to a full body, tight and focused tannins and a long and flavorful finish. This is linear and bright. The tannins are wonderfully polished and poised. Hard not to drink now, but it will improve beautifully in the bottle. A blend of mostly sangiovese with a touch of merlot. Drink or hold."