The 1999 Chianti Classico Riserva Berardo, a blend of 85% Sangiovese and 15% Merlot aged 24 months in French oak, is even richer than the 2000. It boasts an opaque purple color as well as a sweet perfume of concentrated black currants, cherries, new saddle leather, licorice, and spice box. This serious offering may deserve an even higher rating. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.
A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620