The wines from Barone Ricasoli, at Castello di Brolio, are among Chianti Classico’s finest – with this trio of single vineyards, or crus, in the Gaiole sub-region showing how transparently sangiovese can express terroir. Each cru is made in the same way and thus the considerable differences between the wines are purely down to the distinct sites speaking – which they do with great clarity in the beautiful 2021 vintage.
Order by midday on Friday 6th December 
The 2021 vintage is proving to be a showstopping one in Chianti (as in Barbaresco and in Barolo), producing wines of such impeccable balance that this is a vintage you can be confident about cellaring for years. I have advised that the optimum drinking window for the crus is 2026 to 2035. The wines, however, can be approached earlier than 2026 (I’d recommend double decanting if so), but will bring even more complexity and enjoyment with time in the cellar.
As well as the crus, I am delighted to offer Castello di Brolio’s 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione – a blend of three sites on the estate – which is one of the best vintages yet. The flagship wine of this most historical address in Chianti is made by Francesco Ricasoli with the same absolute attention to detail as the crus. It is a must for any keen collector, or for any member beginning to build a collection (the 2021 is the perfect place to start).