2016 Castello di Volpaia Coltassala Chianti Classico

The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala (made from a blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Mammolo) is a beautifully primed and enriched red wine that offers all the basics—and does so in impeccable style. The bouquet shows black fruit, spice and tilled earth. All the aromas are on the dark and savory side, however the wine remains, fresh, tight and buoyant and very linear. It makes you want to try out a local tripe recipe: trippa alla Fiorentina or even the slow-cooked lampredotto alla Fiorentina. Some 12,000 bottles were made.

The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala is classy and refined from start to finish. Sweet red cherry, mint, chalk, flowers and blood orange add a very appealing upper register. New oak gives the Coltassala a modern touch, without completely overpowering the wine.

A more restrained Coltassala and, as far as we’re concerned, all the better for it. What a nose, from the very beginning here, with crushed violets, pressed lavender, bilberries, fresh sage and basil, licorice and crushed stones. Medium body, bright and very energetic acidity and layers of finely wrought tannins. All about the vibrant fruit and driven acidity. From organically grown grapes. Drink now or hold.