The 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva is a big wine. Layers of fruit fill out broad shoulders nicely. Today the 2008 is a bit closed and compact in keeping with the nature of the year, but it should soften as the tannins begin melting away. There is no shortage of energy or drive here. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020.
These new releases from Castello di Querceto are a bit of a mystery. The wines mostly possesses excellent fruit, richness and density, but are also heavily oaked to the extreme. Importer (all wines except Cignale): Prestige Wine Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 229-0080; Importer (Cignale only): Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900