2021 Chianti Classico le Baroncole

Here's a beautiful bottle from San Giusto a Rentennano that outperforms dozens of wines from the appellation that are priced two or three times higher than this. The organic 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Le Baròncole is incredibly focused and tight with black fruit and sweet plum. The wine is Sangiovese with a tiny addition of Canaiolo for extra fruitiness and texture. That sense of focus continues to the palate, where fine tannins support generous fruit weight.

The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Le Baròncole is a real head-turner, one of the best versions I have ever tasted. Large-scaled, ample and wonderfully complex, the 2021 has it all. Black fruit, gravel, spice, licorice and incense saturate the palate. There's a kiss of French oak, but it’s better integrated than in most years. Readers should expect an especially broad, full-bodied Baròncole. I loved this from barrel, and I love it today. Fabulous.

Gaiole. 97% Sangiovese, 3% Canaiolo. Certified organic. Cask sample. Deep ruby. Complex, balsamic nose with a hint of marzipan and the fruit still a little in hiding. Lots of substance on the palate with rich but not sweet cherry fruit supported by the perfect dose of tangy acidity and beautiful, chewy tannins. Not ready yet but already irresistible. (WS)