Aromas of tar, chilis, raspberries and dark chocolate follow through to a full body with super velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Need three years to soften. Another superb blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon from the organic estate in Panzano. Try in 2018.

94+ The fullness and generosity here is absolutely amazing. The 2011 Sammarco is one of the protagonists of this vintage. In fact, I think Sammarco represents the hot 2011 growing season better than any other wine from the Chianti Classico area. The bend this year is 94% Sangiovese with 6% Merlot (the breakdown between the two grapes is usually 90-10) and the wine is fermented with ambient yeasts. The bouquet is beautifully redolent of dark berry fruit, soft spice, licorice and cola. The wine's overall elegance and length are both impressive. - Monica Larner

(92 points) "Ripe, sweet cherry and blackberry fruit is augmented by baking spices, thyme and graphite in this compact, dense red. Muscular tannins lend a chunky feel, but this finishes long and balanced. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. Best from 2018 through 2027. 200 cases imported. –BS"