Chianti Classico Riserva Rocca Guicciarda 2005

Another stop in our wine tasting in Tuscany was at the Castello di Brolio winery operated by the famous Ricasoli family. The family sold the winery in the 1960's to the Seagram Company but Francesco Ricasoli repurchased it in 1993. The Castle has been the compound of Barone Ricasoli since the 12th century. Although the name Chianti has been around since 1404, Bettino "Iron Baron" Ricasoli established the Chianti guidelines in the 1800's which required 75% to 90% Sangiovese grapes with others thrown in to mellow it out. More recently, the DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata Garantina) guidelines have been revised extending the range for Chianti Classico from 70% to 100%. The 2005 Riserva is a medium-bodied wine made from 100% Sangiovese that starts off with some peppery red fruit aromas and a hint of vanilla. The flavors begin with earthy plum, currants and then blackberry flavors with some oakiness. It was aged for 20 months. Not a long finish to this wine. A decent, easy drinking wine, but over-priced at $30. Would pair nicely with white meats or a pasta dish. Robert Parker gave an 87 point rating and Wine Spectator gave an 84 point rating.