Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2019

The most exciting Chianti Riserva I taste every year is, without a doubt, the masterpiece that comes from Castello di Volpaia. Their track record is unparalleled.

Between making the #1 rated Chianti Classico Riserva in Wine Spectator’s history (even outpointing Castello di Ama’s $400/bottling), their multiple Top 100 appearances or their slew of big scores across the board for their wines, it’s a non-stop winemaking clinic over there.

This year, the price is set to rise by 15% and my marketing team said there was no way we could offer it. Unbeknownst to them, I had already bought half a pallet and in the process managed to negotiate down to the beat last year’s price by 10%. That’s a 25% swing.

The only hitch was, we have to go out ahead of the pack. So here’s your first dibs on one of the most expressive Sangioveses in the world.

The 2019 is a must have for any fans of cellar-worthy Italian red wines. It’s a structured Chianti Riserva, with a ton of character. The nose is intense with notes of leather surrounding a core of bright red fruits. The flavors are intense and the finish is long with lingering Bing Cherry notes that absolutely sing.

Obviously, since we’ve got the first crack at it, not all the ratings are in and it probably wouldn’t matter anyway as these will not stick around for long. But Wine Spectator has already weighed in with a 94-point score and a glowing review.