Chianti Classico wines are listed by vintage, then by score achieved, then alphabetically by producer; Vino Nobile di Montepulciano by score then alphabetically by producer. UK stockists are shown where known – contact your regular specialist merchants for current availability. See decanter.com/premium for full tasting notes on the 40 wines featured here PLUS more than 100 additional recommendations from these DOCGs in the 2020, 2019 and 2018 vintages.
Wines marked with a♥ symbol are the author’s selection of wines she feels offer particularly good value, or are among her favourites from the current vintage release.
Chianti Classico 2020
1 TOP VALUE Cigliano di Sopra 92
£23.70 Tannico†
Cigliano di Sopra should be on Chianti Classico lovers’ radars, despite a minuscule production of 10,000 bottles a year. Pressed violet and iris meet blackberry and leather aromas. There is texture and tension on the palate as fleshy red berries cling to the tight, vertical backbone, while tangy orange zest is hunger-inducing. As energetic as the young dynamic duo that crafts this. Organic. Drink 2022-2029 Alcohol 14%
2 TOP VALUE Istine 92
£22.30 Tannico†
Angela Fronti’s well-priced annata is assembled from various estate parcels in Radda and Gaiole. Recently bottled, the 2020 unfolds gradually with peppery spice, perfumed white blossoms and brushwood aromas. Crunchy redcurrant and black raspberry charge the palate, padding out a backbone of granular tannins. Hints of juniper show up on the mouthwatering finish. Organic. Drink 2022-2029 Alc 13%
Montesecondo 92
£31-£36 Buon Vino, Dynamic Vines, Natty Boy Wines
This ferments spontaneously, sees minimal sulphur additions and is aged in a mix of cement vats and used medium-sized oak casks. Discreet forest brush and mint add dimension to redcurrant and black raspberry. It’s more savoury than sweet, though, and it’s the powdery, textured palate that really captivates. Fresh and tangy with nuances of orange peel, not flamboyant but very tasty. Organic. Drink 2023-2028 Alc 13%
Rocca di Montegrossi 91
£14 (ib) Stannary Wine
