The Honest Pour with John Lenart

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of visiting a number of producers in Chianti Classico. To hear those shows check back to episodes 61 – 67. Sadly, while there I missed the chance to visit one of the region’s most iconic estates, Ricasoli at Castello Brolio in Gaiole. Fortunately, when I returned home, I had the opportunity to meet with Francesco Ricasoli.

During his visit he previewed the release of Raritas, a line of three single vineyard Chianti Classico wines that are the highest most distinguished expressions of wines produced on the Brolio estate. Technically Gran Selezione wines, Francesco calls these “Cru” bottlings.

We met to discuss this project and how it fits into the idea of Gran Selezione, his research from which these wines were born, and of course to taste some delicious wines.

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Francesco Ricasoli, President and Owner, Ricasoli

2015 Brolio, Chianti Classico

Delicate aromas of cherry, earth, lavender and spices. Wonderful texture, high acidity and grippy tannin. Flavors of cherry, cocoa, and leather notes.

SRP: $24

2015 Brolio, Chianti Classico Riserva

Complex aromas of raspberry, cherry, espresso and cocoa. Lovely balance and elegant velvety texture. Layered flavors of black cherry, plum, milk chocolate, lavender, clove, and mocha. Fine tannins and mouthwatering acidity. Will mature for 5 to 10  years.

SRP:  $32

2015 Colledilà, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione

Very pretty aroma of earth and perfumed flowers. Very fresh fruit on the palate. Silky texture and finessed balance Elegant and complex flavors of cherry and leather. Lovely harmony. A special wine made to age.

SRP: $70