We have covered Chianti Classico wines in depth in our tastings and reporting in recent years, mostly focused on the Gran Selezione category, which represents the pinnacle for Chianti Classico wines. The introduction of new wine-production rules for the Gran Selezione category in 2021 (after its official debut in 2014) has allowed us to take a deeper view of Chianti Classico, giving us added appreciation for the significance of the wine region’s small plots, with their varying microclimates and soil compositions.
The changes to the rules included increasing the percentage of sangiovese in the blend from 80 percent to 90 percent and cutting the use of international varietals completely, as well as only allowing such indigenous grape types such as canaiolo, malvasia nera and colorino. The wines reflect this uniqueness and complexity, with more and more people becoming aware of places like Radda, Greve, Panzano, Castelnuovo Berardenga as a result.
But let’s not forget about the rest of Chianti Classico. The fair question to ask as Gran Selezione has stepped up its game is whether the category would overshadow or even compromise the quality and standing of existing categories.
The answer is no. On the contrary, the overall quality has increased, with changes in philosophy and modern winemaking leading to fresher, fruitier, and more drinkable offerings, lending a frisson of energy to every tier of Chianti Classico. A wide array of great vintages, like 2015 and 2016, has also helped.
I’m a big fan of Riserva for of its incredible gastronomic compatibility, plus the structure and finesse that come from polishing in large neutral-oak or small French oak barrels, followed by further bottle aging. If you’re in search of a fresh, pure and often mouthwatering red with excellent acidity that pairs perfectly with food, you’re likely to be served Riserva when you order a glass of Chianti Classico at a restaurant. In my opinion, value and quality are almost perfectly balanced, making it a great choice for whatever occasion.
Below is a list of seven Chianti Classico Riserva wines from the 2019 vintage that are available at or just under $25, which is the most recent release on the market. 2019 was a classic year for winemakers in terms of both quality and quantity. These wines are fresh and well-balanced, making them ideal for immediate consumption, but they still have the potential to age beautifully over the next three to five years. Enjoy.
– Andrii Stetsiuk, Associate Editor
Mazzei Chianti Classico Ser Lapo Riserva 2019 – JS 94
Global price: $19
San Felice Chianti Classico Il Grigio Riserva 2019 – JS 94
Wine.com: $23.99
Castelli del Grevepesa Chianti Classico Clemente VII Riserva 2019 – JS 93
Vivino.com: $23.99
Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico I Colombi Riserva 2019 – JS 93
Robersonwine.com: $24
Pagliarese Chianti Classico Riserva 2019 – JS 93
Global price: $23
Tenuta di Nozzole Chianti Classico Nozzole Riserva 2019 – JS 93
Zachys.com: $17.99
KLWines.com: $19.99
Wine.com: $21.99
Castellare di Castellina Chianti Classico Riserva 2019 – JS 92
Zachys.com: $24.99
