The estate’s 2005 Chianti Riserva Castelrotto shows some of the awkwardness of the weaker vintage, particularly in the balance of fruit and oak, which favors the latter, leaving the wine a little hollow in the mid-palate. It reveals a darker shade of red fruits than the regular bottling, with spice and toasted oak overtones that add complexity. Still, there is sufficient depth to offer rewarding drinking over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2013.
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