Tasting Report: 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva

Italian wine lovers have been so excited about the 2006 and 2007 vintages in Tuscany that some have overlooked 2008, but some excellent wines exist. I recently blind tasted in my Italian office through a range of Chianti Classico riservas, and I was impressed with their beautiful fruit, firm tannins, and fresh acidity. The wines are very well integrated and balanced – generous too!

My top wine in this report was from Fontodi, one of the top names in Tuscany. Located in the town of Panzano, Fontodi is best know for its super Tuscany red called Flaccianello della Pieve, but its single vineyard Chianti Classico Vigna del Sorbo Riserva can be very close in quality. What I really liked in the 2008 was its velvety texture and beautiful richness. I scored it 94 points. All the grapes of Fontodi are organically grown.

I also enjoyed the 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva of Renzo Marinai. It was equally rich and velvety textured as the Vigna del Sorbo. Marinai also makes wines hillside vineyards near the town of Panzano. And then I really enjoyed three wines from two producers near the town of Greve including Castello di Querceto, and Viticcio. Monti’s Chianti Classico Grosso Sanese Riserva from Podere Il Palazzino was also a favorite.

Try to find some of the wines below. Most are ready to drink now and will improve with age. They are beautiful Sangivoese-based reds from Chianti Classico from an outstanding vintage.