Many people still think of Chianti as that light red wine that came in a bottle in a basket at a rustic Italian restaurant. Generally you got a wine that was drinkable and easily paired with the red sauce and rich flavors you probably had ordered. There is a whole world of Chianti outside of that restaurant however, and some of it is incredibly good. From the basic versions, to Chianti Classico from the like-named region, to Riservas and high end wines of finesse and power, there is something for everyone in this wine made primarily from the Sangiovese grape. Here we’ll look at one from a small subzone of Chianti at higher altitudes. It is a pretty classic, somewhat rustic style which we love.
Wine: 2018 Frescobaldi Nipozzano Riserva Chianti Rufina
Winery Location: Rufina subzone of Chianti – Tuscany, Italy
Tasted By: Neil & Cheri Date: October 2022
Tasting Notes: As mentioned above this is from a small, high altitude subzone of Chianti generally considered to rival Chianti Classico in quality. The wine is a medium dark cherry red in color with a bright, cherry dominated nose. There is also cedar and leather. On the palate it is fairly tannic, with bright cherry fruit and a long, somewhat lean finish. This is still very young and will smooth out with a couple of years in bottle, but we like it now as well. It is a perfect pizza wine, or you can dress it up with a wild boar ragout. Very nice, more rustic style.
Price Point – $20
Would We Buy It? – yes, we did and would again. While the refined, elegant Chianti Classicos hold a revered spot in our wine fridges, there is always room for a true to form, rustic style Chianti. This is good Sangiovese.
A votre santé
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