2020 Castello di Monsanto Il Poggio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany

The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Il Poggio is a total stunner. What a wine. Elegant and translucent, the 2020 impresses with a sublime, finessed personality that is impossible to miss. Fine tannins and lifted, sensual aromatics immediately announce a wine of utter class. On the palate, the 2020 is wonderfully deep and layered, with mind-blowing balance and exceptional pedigree. The 2020 is one of the very finest Il Poggios ever made. It has been nothing short of breathtaking on the two occasions I have tasted it so far. Don't miss it! (AG)

98 points Vinous

A restrained, reductive and transparent wine with aromas of roses, violets, rhubarb and chalky minerality. Supple and medium- to full-bodied on the palate, with elegant, velvety tannins and long, refreshing acidity that’s super juicy and tight in the finish. Tense and polished, with a touch of sternness in the aftertaste. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.

97 points James Suckling

Castello di Monsanto is one of Tuscany's legendary estates, with the Bianchi family producing benchmark Chianti Classico from the rolling hills of Barberino Val d'Elsa since 1961. The estate helped redefine the region's potential through meticulous vineyard work and an unwavering belief in Sangiovese, with Il Poggio becoming the first single vineyard Chianti Classico ever released.

Il Poggio is the estate's historic flagship vineyard, planted on galestro and limestone soils that consistently produce Sangiovese of remarkable perfume, structure and longevity. As a Gran Selezione DOCG, it represents the highest expression of the estate, combining concentration with the elegance and freshness that have made Castello di Monsanto one of Chianti Classico's great names.

The colour is a deep ruby red with youthful garnet highlights. Aromas of black cherry, wild strawberry and plum are layered with violet, cedar, dried herbs and sweet spice. The palate is beautifully refined, combining vibrant red and dark fruits with silky tannins and bright acidity. Layers of tobacco, earthy minerality and savoury spice unfold through the long, persistent finish, capturing the pedigree of this celebrated vineyard.

Magnificent with bistecca alla Fiorentina, slow braised wild boar, pappardelle with porcini mushrooms or aged Pecorino Toscano. Enjoy with a generous decant today or cellar confidently through the 2040s as the wine develops even greater complexity.