Here's a generous and complete wine from this little-known denomination in Tuscany. Made with organic fruit, it offers great value and an honest approach. The 2013 Chianti Rufina reveals a core of red berry that is supported by mild wood spice and extract. The blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Canaiolo showcases ripe cherry and red currant aromas. The wine is assembled in stainless steel and aged in large oak casks for 12 months.

The 2011 Chianti Rufina is a tasty red wine that makes a great first impression. This is a very detail-oriented expression that shows fine points of dusty minerality, pencil shavings and crushed brimstone. Red-fruit layers add an attractive sense of tension and energy that accompanies the wine over the palate. It's one of my personal favorites thanks also to the sheer silkiness of its texture. This is an excellent value.

This Chianti Rufina opens with berry aromas and distant shadings of exotic spice. Although the nose is a bit closed and lacking in intensity, the wine picks up speed in the mouth thanks to the brightness of the acidity. ——M.L.(4/1/2011)—— 87