The 2020 Barone Ricasoli Ceniprimo Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is a Sangiovese varietal from the renowned Chianti region in Tuscany, Italy. This red wine, produced by Barone Ricasoli, showcases the distinct characteristics of the Ceniprimo vineyard, known for its fluvial soils and lower elevation at 300 meters in the Arbia valley.
Decanter awarded this wine a score of 95, highlighting its darker and earthier style compared to other crus. "There’s a touch of creaminess evident in the background, with touches of earth, pepper, and wood," they noted, adding that it possesses "balsamic freshness and lovely purity" but needs more time to fully develop (Decanter, 9/19/2023).
James Suckling gave the Ceniprimo an excellent review with a score of 97, describing it as having "aromas of al dente cherries with citrus peel" combined with floral notes of red roses. He praised its medium to full body and the open grain tannins that "caress like cashmere," suggesting it will reach its peak after a few years (jamessuckling.com, 8/7/2023).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also scored it 95, commending its medium-dark appearance and concentrated aromas of "cherry liqueur, blackberry, spice, and sweet earth." The reviewer appreciated the wine’s "vibrant freshness" on the finish, which is particularly notable in a warm vintage like 2020. They highlighted its meticulous balance and noted a production of 11,000 bottles (Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 9/21/2023).
Vinous offered a slightly lower score of 92, describing the wine as "potent" with notable aromatic presence from white pepper, cedar, and dried herbs. They suggested it needs a few more years to soften, as the 2020 vintage is currently "a bit nervous" (Vinous, 8/1/2023).
Wine Spectator rated it 94, focusing on its complex and focused profile with "enticing aromas of cherry, black currant, violet, mineral, and spices." They praised its fine balance and lingering aftertaste, recommending it be enjoyed from 2025 through 2043 (Wine Spectator, 10/31/2023).
Wine & Spirits described the Ceniprimo as "compact and coiled," with flavors of fresh and dried cherry framed by broad, powerful tannins. They noted elements of salinity that brighten its rich, creamy texture and balance the warm spice notes, giving it a score of 93 (Wine & Spirits, 4/1/2023).
Finally, Jeb Dunnuck awarded the wine a score of 94, appreciating its "layered aromas of cedar, kirsch, fresh leather, candied raspberry, and sweet licorice." The reviewer described it as refined and plush on the palate with a velvety texture and clean, balanced acidity, projecting a long enjoyment window of 15 to 20 years (jebdunnuck.com, 1/25/2024).
Overall, the 2020 Barone Ricasoli Ceniprimo Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is a highly regarded wine that promises to develop further complexity and depth with time.