This is an easy to drink red from the respected Chianti Classico producer. The color is bright and clear with medium concentration and a garnet to ruby composition. For a wine this young the outer rim is already showing a clear to onion skin [pelure d’oignon] variation; plus it’s highly viscous with stained tears.

The nose has an ever so slight hint of volatile acidity [VA], displayed as nail polish remover. This is not a deal breaker by any means. There is medium-plus power coming out of the glass and non-fruit nuances of sweaty leather saddle, fresh tarragon, oily basil and dusty stone. The fruit profile is black cherry, stewed strawberry and wood-fired tomato peel. There is no presence of oak. The palate is dry with a super-smooth, residual sugar mouthfeel. Accompanying the texture are medium to medium-plus tannins [felt in the gums] and a solid medium acidity, not what you would expect from 90% Sangiovese [the balance is Merlot]. Another unexpected surprise is the wine opens up immediately upon uncorking, not bad for a 2009. The final surprise is the fruit nuances, which take a back seat to the non-fruit on the nose, move to the forefront on the palate. A fun wine to drink at 15-bucks.

Anthony Garcia
www.wineisdivine.com
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