Tuscany
by Jane Augustine
2021 Chianti Classico Riserva “Terrazze”
Italy | Tuscany
Castagnoli’s well-aged Terrazze reserve is a long-lasting and dense Chianti Classico, brooding with black currant, pepper, and resin. It’s made from Sangiovese grapes that grow on one of the most spectacular properties I’ve ever visited. The staked vines that dot their steep terraced hills resemble those of the northern Rhône, but with the olive trees, surrounding forest, and an abundant scent of wild sage in the air, the ambiance and landscape are distinctly Tuscan. Terrazze will have you craving something hot and meaty off the grill, so plan for a burger night in advance.
2023 Chianti Classico
Italy | Tuscany
Campriano’s Chianti is just what one would hope for from the Italian reds category: bright and savory fruit, crisp and grippy texture, and grounding spices on the nose like clove and star anise. The care they take in their vineyards is matched only by their exceptional hospitality. On a recent visit, they served us a perfect meal of warm, pillowy loaves of bread straight from their stone oven, filled with homemade porchetta. What a dream it was when paired with young Chianti.
2024 Rosso di Montalcino
Italy | Tuscany
Tasting the wealth of terroir in Sesti’s Rosso di Montalcino, it’s hard to imagine there was ever a time when Montalcino was the poorest commune in Tuscany. The natural richness of the area is astounding, and Sesti manages to bottle it all up, to finesse and eke out of the land the most soulful nuances from all that surrounds them. It’s impossible to leave a visit at Sesti not wanting more from its current steward and vigneronne, Elisa, be it family stories, the history of the region, or the food and wine they serve. Luckily, souvenirs exist, and we import them. Their Rosso, vintage after vintage, is reliably mesmerizing and nothing short of a perfect red wine.