Brancaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2019 (750ML)

94 WA / 94 JS / 94 WS / 93 JD / 93 DE

The 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva is an organic blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot. I can't say enough good things about Barbara Widmer and her winemaking efforts in this wild and forested corner of Radda in Chianti. Her wines always express clarity and focus, and this is especially clear in a mid-range product like this. This vintage offers more concentration and darkness for sure, followed by blackberry and wild plum. There is oaky cinnamon and sweet spice at the back. Some 37,000 bottles were made.-Monica Larner, Wine Advocate

This has a classic nose of sour cherries, redcurrants, lemon peel, bark and tomato leaves. Medium-bodied with tight-grained tannins and bright acidity. Fresh and light-footed, yet persistent, long and evolving. Very elegant. Drink after 2023.-James Suckling

A classy red, this is notable for the supple texture as much as the cherry, plum, loam, mineral and spice flavors. Dense, vibrant and complex, with fine balance and a long fruity, minerally aftertaste. Sangiovese and Merlot. Best from 2026 through 2045. 3,000 cases made, 875 cases imported.-Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator

Coming from vineyards in both Castellina in Chianti and Radda, the 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva is Sangiovese with the addition of 20% Merlot, raised in French oak barrels for 16 months. A soft and expressive perfume lifts from the glass and reveals pure, ripe aromas of licorice, candied cherry, and lavender. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with crunchy red plum fruit, turned forest floor, and dried herbs. It cleans off the palate with freshness and has fine but coiled tannins. Drink 2025-2040.-Jeb Dunnuck

Tannins are fresh and crunchy, not too over extracted but give plenty of frame and structure.- Michaela Morris, Sara Bachiorri, Michelle Cherutti-Kowal MW, Decanter