Chianti Is Having a ‘Hell of a Season’ and These Bottles Are Proof

The nose begins deeply savory, with aromas of old leather, balsamic and earth, then effortlessly transitions to sweeter, rich notes of dark chocolate, dried figs and cherries. Tangy, bright fresh cherries and plums on the palate, with more chocolate against notes of orange peel and fennel. Strikingly alive and refreshing despite an overall feel of brooding richness, no doubt thanks also to the large format. 95 Points — Danielle Callegari

The nose balances fruit aromas of strawberry, cherry and raspberry with weightier, savory notes of soil, graphite and dark chocolate. The cohesive, equally balanced palate brings more berries and chocolate, creating a classic, measured, self-assured Chianti. 94 Points — D.C.

The warm, inviting, almost sensuous nose features abundant tar and gravel, along with succulent aromas of blood orange, blackberry and caramelized fennel. More dark berry notes emerge on the palate, before a bitter finish of citrus and dark chocolate. Sticky, dense tannins bind everything together. 93 Points — D.C.

The nose balances the tart sweetness of blackberries and wild cherries with savory, warm aromas of potting soil and burnt sage. That balance continues on the palate before a hot, exciting, peppery finish. A linear, fresh wine made with the most conscientious of practices—a very fine example of this category.92 Points — D.C.

The nose starts with the warm earthiness of sage, fennel and bitter orange, then turns sanguine with aromas of graphite, damp soil, black cherry and plum skin. The palate is more fruit-forward, and luxuriously so, but the mouthfeel is generous rather than excessive. Acid flows silently through walls of steep, impenetrable tannins. Best Buy. 92 Points — D.C.

On the nose, a tart cherry blast pushes up against abundant umami aromas of warm tar, balsamic and damp earth. The palate brings more tart fruit, but also a sweetness from a subtle swirl of chocolate and vanilla. Tannins and acid are refined and composed. Best Buy. 90 Points — D.C.

An earthy, sanguine nose of soil, cherries and dark chocolate also has the freshness of mint and fennel. Cherries and chocolate headline the palate, until a bitter finish of espresso, sambuca and orange peel. A latent spiciness contrasts with an overall silky texture. Best Buy. 90 Points —  D.C.

The nose is savory and umami throughout, with aromas of damp earth and leaves, crushed berries and graphite. That salty earthiness also defines the palate, although a more assertive fruit streak and heat add nuance. Tannins and acid are fierce and intense. 91 Points — Danielle Callegari

The nose is bright and sweet with aromas of cherry and strawberry, rooted in undertones of warm earth, roots, crushed rocks and herbs. That interplay between juicy fruit and gently bitter medicinality continues on the palate, before a peppery, chocolatey finish. Refined tannins provide structure. 92 Points — D.C.

On the nose, intensely savory aromas of old leather, balsamic and damp earth are enlivened by a drizzle of cherry syrup. That fruit element explodes on the palate with a cornucopia of berries, but the earthiness lingers as an undertone before a synthesizing mocha finish. The acid floods a valley of fine grained tannins. 93 Points — D.C.