2023 Brancaia Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany

Brilliant ruby red colour with slightly brightening edges. A fragrant nose of rose petals, liquorice, white chocolate and some blackberry. Great palate feel with precise acidity and pleasant drinking flow. Great fun!

92 points falstaff.com

Aromas of cherries, dried herbs, strawberry bush, wet stones and subtle spices with some dusty mineral notes. Silky and textured on the medium-bodied palate, it’s deliciously fruity and smooth, with a lingering finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

92 points jamessuckling.com

Brancaia Chianti Classico DOCG is a vibrant and polished expression of Sangiovese from one of Tuscany’s most respected modern estates. Brancaia’s vineyards sit across some of the best zones of Castellina and Radda where altitude, limestone rich soils and cooling breezes shape fruit with purity, aromatic lift and fine tannins. The estate has been family run since the nineteen eighties and is known for its meticulous vineyard work, organic farming and an uncompromising focus on balance and elegance. Brancaia’s Chianti Classico is their heart and soul wine, crafted to highlight the freshness, depth and authenticity of Sangiovese in its purest form.

Grapes are hand harvested and sorted with great care before undergoing fermentation in stainless steel to preserve brightness and clarity. A portion of the wine then matures in tonneaux and larger oak casks which add refinement and gentle complexity without masking the fruit. This combination of modern precision and traditional sensibility creates a Chianti Classico that is expressive, structured and beautifully drinkable from release while still capable of graceful ageing.

In the glass it shows a glowing ruby red colour. The nose opens with juicy red cherry, wild strawberry and raspberry layered with violets, dried herbs, blood orange and subtle spice. Beneath the fruit sits a classic Tuscan earthiness with hints of cedar, warm terracotta and a touch of anise. As it opens, savoury tones of dried rose, leather and soft tobacco appear, adding aromatic depth and charm.

The palate is fresh, silky and medium bodied with lively acidity that carries bright red fruits across the tongue. Flavours of cherry, redcurrant, pomegranate and plum mingle with notes of spice, dried herbs, fine tannins and a clean mineral thread. Everything feels focused, harmonious and beautifully balanced. The finish is long, pure and lightly savoury with lingering red fruit and Sangiovese’s signature tanginess. It is a classic yet modern Chianti Classico, offering generosity without heaviness and finesse without austerity. It will continue to evolve over six to ten years.

Pair it with Tuscan favourites such as bistecca alla Fiorentina, slow cooked ragù, pappardelle with porcini mushrooms, roast chicken with herbs, grilled vegetables, pecorino cheese or simple antipasti. Its freshness and versatility make it a superb table companion.