2001 Castell'in Villa Chianti Classico

Community Tasting Notes (1) Avg Score: 92 points

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  7/20/2006 - tschampaert wrote: 92 Points

  100% Sangiovese. This is a truly marvelous Chianti Classico ... We had it in a Sangiovese tasting a few months ago, comparing it with Sangiovese reference wines of Monte Vertine, Banfi, Ciacci Piccolomini, Poliziano and the likes, where it all perplexed us with its brilliant vivaciousness and vigorous expression of this varietal. It's really unbelievable that you can buy it in a local supermarket for just € 8,50! I had a few bottles cellared, so I thought, maybe I should taste it again on my own and see if it livens up to my first impression.
  When uncorking there is immediately a very delineated and expressive scent of wild strawberries, red plum and violets, so pure and refined that you'd have wished it was the perfume at the other side of the mirror tablet in your bathroom. When opened for a while (I uncorked it about 6 hours before consumption) the bouquet unfolds its richness: strawberry, very sweet cherry (almost maraschino), violets, crushed brushwood and anise. Waltzing brings body to its aromatic spectrum and reveals plum, dried plum and some oak. When aired for a while there is also liquorice, coffee and a little earthiness. The astonishing complexity of the nose is also present on the palate. A very balanced, feminine and tender taste pattern of red fruit and plum fruit, with an almost excessively sweet entry and a nice ethereal midpalate of anise, violets and clove. The aftertaste is balanced on cherry chocolate, coffee and a modest tinge of roasted wood. Tannins have a silky structure, are remarkably present but still very well integrated (2001 was for most chiantis a tannic year - also a year with longevity). Refreshing fruity sours complete the picture.
  So, yes, again a marvelous wine.

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