The 2018 Chianti Classico is fresh, vibrant and ethereal. A wine of tremendous character, the 2018 is not obvious in any way, but it does offer tremendous appeal for readers who enjoy classically built wines. Sweet red cherry, cedar, tobacco, dried flowers and pine are all nicely layered. There is something incredibly retro about the Pagliarese Chianti Classico that harkens back to another era. I loved it.

Part of the greater Fèlsina holdings in Tuscany, the Pagliarese 2018 Chianti Classico offers a simple and straightforward expression with plenty of bright cherry fruit, forest berry and sour cherry. The wine is fresh and slightly tart, making it a good pairing partner to a cheese-only pizza. We see a classic approach to Chianti Classico in this fresh and bright blend of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo and 5% Mammolo aged in botte grande for 12 months. Some 40,000 bottles were made.

Aromatic, this red offers lavender and orange peel notes that are complemented by cherry and strawberry flavors. Earth and iron accents add complexity as this finishes on the firm, tannic side. Best from 2021 through 2028. 5,000 cases made, 2,500 cases imported.