The 2001 Chianti Classico Grosso Sanese, not unexpectedly, is better than the La Pieve, with its potent, warm aromas, dense and sustained palate, and its rich, nuanced extraction which should guarantee at least a decade of life ahead. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

Delicious, with smoky black fruit and hints of spice and aromatic wood. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine, fruit-coated tannins and a long, balanced finish. Hard to resist now. Best after 2004. 850 cases made, 450 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add