The 2004 Chianti Classico is a very serious Chianti. Livelier in color and more expressive in its aromatics than the 2003, it exhibits a nuanced personality, with notes of dark cherries, licorice and minerals that open up in the glass. It offers outstanding length on the palate and fine yet broad tannins that will require a few years to come together. A bottle of the 2001 tasted alongside it was just entering the early part of its drinking window. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Importer: The Sorting Table, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 603-1461

Lots of bright fruit, with berry and mineral character. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins. Long finish. A pretty wine. Best after 2006. 14,500 cases made, 1,250 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add