Chianti Classico Rubiolo DOCG 2012
89+
Gagliole’s 2012 Chianti Classico is striking. Texture reigns supreme in a super-expressive Chianti that hits all the right notes. Sweet flora nuances meld into red cherry, mint, spice and rose petal. The tannins are a bit firm, but then again, the 2012 was bottled a day before this tasting. The 2012 is a wine built on textural elegance and depth.
Valletta IGT 2011
92
The 201 Valletta, is a Sangiovese/Merlot blend from the Bär family’s property in Panzano. Dark red cherry, plum, mint, sage and sweet spices form a fabric of pure nuance as this striking wine shows off its class and personality. Finesse, silky tannins support a finish laced with floral and spice overtones. This is a fabulous showing from Gagliole.
Gagliole IGT 2011
93
A dark, imposing wine, the 2011 Gagliole Rosso is endowed with plenty of old-vine resonance. Plums, black cherries, smoke and mocha all take shape in the glass. The style is super-ripe and intense to the core, but the broad, ample finish provides a measure of balance.
Pecchia IGT 2010
94
The 2010 Pecchia, the estate’s top selection of Sangiovese, is terrific. Voluptuous and textured in the glass, the 2010 graces the palate with gorgeous depth and pure 2010 vintage resonance. Sweet tobacco, dried red cherries, plums and licorice all blossom effortlessly. With time in the glass, the 2010 freshens up nicely. As always, the style is rich, powerful and concentrated to the core. As good as the 2010 is, my impression is that it will soon be surpassed here.