2021 Barone Ricasoli Gran Selezione Gaiole Colledila Chianti Classico, Tuscany

The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Colledilà opens to dark fruit, but perhaps more significantly, you get a slate-like mineral note that adds focus. That mineral note appears in all these beautiful Gran Selezione wines from vintner Francesco Ricasoli, but in the case of this bottle, it adds a dark or slightly brooding personality. The finish is absolutely savory and salty.

96-97 points Monica Larner robertparker.com

Barone Ricasoli Gran Selezione Gaiole Colledila Chianti Classico is a refined and complex red that perfectly represents the exceptional quality and tradition of Tuscan winemaking. Coming from the prestigious Colledila vineyard in Gaiole in Chianti, this wine showcases the best of the Chianti Classico region, renowned for its unique terroir and ideal conditions for growing Sangiovese. Under the guidance of Francesco Ricasoli, the Barone Ricasoli estate produces wines that highlight the elegance, depth, and complexity of the region.

The fruit for this wine is carefully sourced from the estate’s Colledila vineyard, where the combination of altitude, soils, and microclimate results in grapes with balance and intensity. A blend of Sangiovese, with small amounts of other local varieties, undergoes fermentation in stainless steel to preserve the purity of the fruit. It is then aged in French oak barrels, which imparts subtle complexity, depth, and structure without overshadowing the wine's vibrant fruit character.

In the glass, it presents a deep ruby color with garnet hues, signaling its intensity. The nose is a beautiful blend of ripe red berries, such as cherry and raspberry, layered with hints of leather, tobacco, and a touch of spice. On the palate, it is full-bodied with a rich texture and firm tannins, balanced by bright acidity that is characteristic of Chianti Classico. The flavors evolve on the palate, with dark fruit, a touch of earthiness, and well-integrated oak contributing vanilla and a slight smokiness. The finish is long, lingering with a savory note and subtle spices.

This Chianti Classico is perfect for pairing with rich dishes like roasted meats, grilled steaks, or hearty pasta with tomato-based sauces. It also complements aged cheeses, such as pecorino or Parmesan, making it a versatile wine for many meals. Whether enjoyed now or allowed to age further, it promises to develop even more complexity and depth over time.