2019 Fèlsina "Rancia" Chianti Classico Riserva

An icon wine of Tuscany, the Fèlsina 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia (with 48,000 bottles made) is distinguished by its special aromatic fingerprint that truly brings us to a sense of place. At its heart, the wine reveals dark fruit and plum. More interesting, however, are the dusty mineral sensations that give so much texture and depth to the Rancia. These aromas can only be found in Sangiovese from the galestro and alberese-rich soils of Chianti Classico. This vintage follows up with sweet tobacco, toasted chestnut and scorched earth. Give this wine more time to flesh out and evolve in the bottle. (ML) 94+

Rancia is Fèlsina’s 6.25ha vineyard. It looks southwest toward the region of Montalcino and is bathed in balmy breezes from the sea beyond. The soil is rocky - prominently limestone-rich Alberese with Galestro marl. The 2019 transmits all the warmth of the site at a remarkably balanced 13.5% alcohol. Still wrapped up in toasted oak, it takes some coaxing to get to the ripe, rich prune and baked cherry. Lush and full, it effortlessly soaks up its solid structure and generous wood. Leather, anise and iron lace the palate and it closes with a drying sensation. (MM)