Brancaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2021
(Tuscany, Italy) - [WS 94] [JS 94] [DM 92] [WA 92] [VM 91]

Notes from the Winemaker:

Our Riserva is made from our best Sangiovese grapes. This medium to full-bodied wine shows the elegance and charm of this classic Tuscan grape variety and reveals a finesse that certainly does justice to this historical denomination. Aromas such as cherry, spices, leather and chocolate harmonize perfectly with each other. The Sangiovese matures in tonneaux for 16 months, while the Merlot is matured in barriques. The cuvée matures in the bottle for at least another year after bottling.

Ratings & Reviews:

94 Points - Wine Spectator:
"A mix of black cherry, blackberry and floral flavors is underscored by a firm structure in this fleshy red. Intense and balanced, with a lingering, mineral aftertaste. This feels crisp in the end, offering a light tactile feel around the gums. Sangiovese and Merlot. Best from 2027 through 2045. 3,000 cases made, 607 cases imported." - Bruce Sanderson (Oct 2024)

94 Points - James Suckling:
"Very attractive interplay of dark berries, chocolate and toasted spices with good concentration and depth. Bright, focused and so juicy, with a medium body and steady acidity. Savory and crunchy. Drink or hold." (Jul 2024)

92 Points - Decanter Magazine:
"This stalwart Riserva has been produced for 40 years. A blend of place (Radda and Castellina), a mix of grapes (Sangiovese and Merlot), and a combination of ageing vessels (tonneaux for the former and barriques for the latter), it is Brancaia’s signature. Clean and polished, the 2021 opens with mocha-tinged red cherry, cedar and balsam wood. Darker fruit tones with a hint of truffles surface on the palate. The glossy fruit character matches the smooth tannins, while a creamy texture is countered by crunchy acidity. Lovely structure for mid-term ageing." - Michaela Morris (Feb 2024)

92 Points - Wine Advocate:
"In the bottle with the burgundy-colored label, the organic Brancaia 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva is subtle on first nose with savory aromas of dried fruit, black cherry and potting soil. I feel like this sample doesn't quite give its full self, but it might just be a question of needing more time in bottle. A mild, mid-weight mouthfeel is capped by balanced acidity." – Monica Larner (Jul 2024)

91 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva is a classic Brancaia wine. Dark, resonant and layered in the glass, the 2021 shows off its notable depth in style. Hints of mocha, new leather and brown spice all meld together in this decidedly sumptuous, textured Riserva." – Antonio Galloni (Jul 2024)