The 2019 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva is a well-regarded Sangiovese from the Radda sub-appellation in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. This red wine, with an alcohol content of 14.0%, showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of its producer, Castello di Volpaia. The wine is sealed with a cork and is certified organic, hailing from a site with sandstone soils that rise up to 600 meters above sea level.
Decanter awarded this wine a score of 93, noting its polished and detailed characteristics. "Heady cherry blossoms, warm flinty stone and grilled herbs greet the nose. On the palate, crunchy acidity and a clever blood orange lift lend brightness to black cherry and dark earth nuances," the reviewer from Decanter highlighted, adding that the wine is sturdy enough to age for the next decade.
Similarly, James Suckling also gave it a score of 93, describing it as having "aromas of sweet berries, crushed stones and violets" that "follow through beautifully to a medium-bodied with fine, integrated tannins and a pretty finish." He emphasized the wine's crisp and crunchy structure, recommending it for immediate consumption or further aging.
Wine Spectator rated the wine slightly higher at 94, praising its firm structure and complexity. "A bright yet firmly structured Chianti Classico, with iron, leather, almond and floral accents surrounding a core of cherry fruit. Sleek and intense, with a lingering finish echoing cherry, red berry and mineral notes," the reviewer noted, suggesting it will be at its best from 2024 through 2040.
Vinous provided a score of 91, describing the wine as "dark, brooding" with flavors of black cherry, leather, licorice, incense, spice, and tobacco. Antonio Galloni from Vinous mentioned that the wine has "good depth" but is marked by somewhat angular contours, giving it a rustic feel.
Other reviewers, including Jeb Dunnuck, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, and Wine Enthusiast, also gave the wine scores of 93, highlighting its dark fruit flavors, floral concentration, and fine tannins. Monica Larner from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate recommended the wine highly, appreciating its "perfumed and vibrant" profile with "black fruit, crushed stone and wild rose."
Overall, the 2019 Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva is highly recommended by multiple reviewers for its balanced structure, complex flavors, and potential for aging.
