Villa Rosa

The nose sparkles with bright aromas of bing cherry and orange peel, but an herbaceous undertone provides depth. The cherry notes sweeten on the palate, but more herbs and a newfound, clean stoniness preserve balance. Acid shines through a tangle of dusty, grippy tannins.

Gran Selezione is a new category of Chianti Classico that sits above Reserva, at the pinnacle of the Chianti Classico quality pyramid. Without getting into the weeds regarding the regulations for Gran Selezione, suffice it to say it should be the producer’s best Chianti Classico. Polished and refined, this Gran Selezione maintains alluring fruity and savory complexity that defines Chianti Classico. Unsurprisingly, it grows in the glass with savory herbal elements displacing the elegant cherry-like notes. Initially reticent, its evolution is a delight to watch, so don’t rush this one. A subtle bitterness in the long finish adds intrigue and reminds you that this has another dimension.