2009 Castello dei Rampolla Chianti Classico

The 2009 Chianti Classico is insanely beautiful. Layers of flavor flow effortlessly from this sexy, supple Chianti Classico. Sweet red berries, licorice, mint and flowers are woven together in a fabric of inimitable class and sheer elegance. The Di Napoli family, with their extraordinary commitment to quality, elevate Chianti Classico to a level that is exceedingly rare. Chianti Classico as an appellation continues to struggle in the marketplace, but this is a perfect example of the recipe for success: A great site; meticulous, painstaking work in the vineyards and cellar; no shortcuts. This is a dazzling wine in every way. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. Rampolla is one of the most fascinating wineries in Tuscany, and Italy, for that matter. The relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in these spectacular wines. The 2008s capture Rampolla in a transitional phase that marks the move to cement and amphora, which was completed by 2009. As for the wines, they are spectacular. In 2010, Rampolla introduced a new wine, a 100% Sangiovese fermented and aged in amphora, with no additional SO2, that I was not able to taste for this article. Simply put, these are reference point wines from Luca and Maurizia Di Napoli. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200