89 2012 Riecine Chianti Classico 11/1/15 ($20)
13.5% alc
Color: Medium deep red to black cherry. (3.0) Bouquet: Classic Tuscan terroir with dusty briar, minerals and sticks combined with interesting roasted nut nuances. All of this complements the tart, laser-sharp red cherry fruit. (3.0) Body: Solid middleweight with very good fruit and outstanding acidity. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet with youthfully fierce acidity. (3.0) Finish: Not quite as expressive as flavor. (2.5)
Overall: A classic example of the appellation with lots of Tuscan terroir. There is no fat here and very little oak as well. Just lean, tart red cherry fruit. This should appeal to the Tuscan purist, I like it a lot myself. Just don't expect big and rich, because this is the antithesis. Does show some sharp youthful acidity, so serve at cellar temperature. Decant for now drinking or give it 2-3 years bottle age. Excellent value. (14.5)
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