Fattoria Rodano

Chianti Classico 2019

92

Anyone who believes that the only superb wines from the Chianti Classico district are ones with the words “Riserva” or “Gran Selezione” tacked onto their designation will be persuaded to the contrary by this wine. It shows satisfying richness without any excess ripeness, and the fact that it is much more flavorful than it is weighty makes it very versatile. What makes it especially interesting is how deftly its fruity aromas and flavors are interwoven with spicy and savory streaks. It borders on being “earthy,” but there’s nothing remotely “dirty” about the wine, so let’s just stick with “savory.” As for the value it offers, this is more detailed and compelling than many “Riserva” or “Gran Selezione” Chianti Classico wines, as you’ll agree if you taste this.

Fattoria Rodano

Chianti Classico 2019

91

The 2019 Chianti Classico is a powerhouse. Black cherry, plum, leather, spice, scorched earth, mocha and dried leaves abound in this strapping Chianti Classico. This needs time to come together following its bottling a few months prior. This is an especially strapping Chianti Classico, but it is full of character. Time in the glass brings out attractive floral and earthy undertones that add nuance.

Fattoria Rodano

Chianti Classico 2018

92

This wine hits a sweet spot for me between a relatively traditional style (meaning, low oak, nice high acidity, and just a hint of earthy rusticity) and a moderately modern one (as in, ripe fruit with a touch of sweet juiciness). This combination can make for a very versatile wine, but only if all the elements work well together thanks to being proportioned properly, and this wine hits that mark. Delicious on its own (hardly a “given” for Chianti), but also sized to work with everything from a roast chicken to a moderately robust beef dish, this is a terrific wine to have around the house for opening on a moment’s notice — as it will work for almost any moment or purpose.