Ricasoli Rocca Guicciarda – Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy. 2006 (13.5%) $43 – 89 pts

Medium-plus ruby in colour with a touch of garnet showing on the rim. The nose has good intensity with very earthy notes of burlap, leather and dried herbs with some interesting tart cherry aromas in the background. The palate is dry, medium-bodied with medium-plus acid and tannin giving a classic, dry Sangiovese mouthfeel and lots of savoury earth, clove, leather, orange zest and juicy cherry aromas. Finish is long and dry and begging for food, a classic example. RATING: 89 pts