2016 Chianti Classico Riserva is an expressive and elegant vintage 2016 was an expressive and elegant vintage. There was ample summer sunshine and just enough rain in early September to hold off harvest, giving the fruit more precious time on the vine. Warm days and cool nights produced wines with ripe fruit avors, deep color, vibrant acidity and very precise aromatics. Floral tones of violets and lavender dominate the aromas. Other aromas include blueberries on the vine, vanilla bean and honey. The palate is framed by bright acids with a dense layered center. Flavors of tart cherries give way to a lasting cedar and orange peel finish. This vintage will be remembered well, and has the structure and acids to age beautifully.

Ushering out the Decade with Stellar Holiday Samples I tasted notes of stone fruit, citrus, tropical fruits, apple and a bit of oak.

Halliday Wine Companion Top 50 Wines of the Year - #47

Halliday Wine Companion Top 50 Wines of the Year - #23

Halliday Wine Companion Top 50 Wines of the Year - #7