2017 Piccini Antica Cinta Chianti Riserva DOCG, Tuscany

The Piccini family has been part of Tuscany's winemaking landscape since 1882, when Angiolo Piccini purchased a small vineyard estate in Castellina in Chianti. More than 140 years later, the family remains dedicated to producing wines that celebrate the traditions and character of Tuscany. Antica Cinta, meaning "ancient belt", pays tribute to the historic heartland of Chianti, where generations of growers have cultivated Sangiovese on the rolling hills between Florence and Siena.

A Chianti Riserva must spend extended time ageing before release, allowing the wine to develop greater depth, structure and complexity. The 2017 vintage was shaped by a warm, dry growing season that produced concentrated fruit with rich flavours and generous tannins. Careful maturation in oak has softened the wine and added layers of savoury character, creating a more complete and harmonious expression of Sangiovese.

Deep ruby red with garnet reflections that have emerged with bottle age, the bouquet is wonderfully expressive. Aromas of black cherry, dried cranberry and plum are joined by notes of leather, tobacco leaf, cedar and dried herbs. As the wine opens, hints of spice, earth and balsamic nuances add further complexity. The palate is smooth and mature, combining ripe red and dark fruits with savoury flavours of liquorice, forest floor and subtle oak spice. Fine tannins and bright acidity maintain the classic balance that makes Chianti such a versatile food wine. The finish is long, elegant and gently earthy.

Pair it with slow cooked osso buco, wild boar ragù, rosemary roasted lamb, mushroom pappardelle or aged Pecorino Toscano. Now entering a lovely stage of maturity, it offers immediate enjoyment while retaining enough structure to continue developing over the next five to eight years.