Expect dark cherry, dried red fruit, leather, dried herb, tobacco, and refined oak with medium-to-full body and structured tannins. The 2021 Tuscan vintage was good.
- Varietal
- Sangiovese-dominant Chianti Classico Riserva blend
- Region
- Italy / Tuscany / Chianti Classico (note: database lists "Montalcino" — Banfi has estates in both Montalcino and Chianti Classico, but a Chianti Classico Riserva would by definition be from the Chianti Classico zone, not Montalcino)
- Body
- Medium to Full
- Style
- dry red, structured, oak-aged
The producer
Castello Banfi is one of Italy's largest premium producers, with major holdings in both Montalcino (where Banfi is best known) and Chianti Classico. The Chianti Classico Riserva represents an extended-aging expression with at least 24 months of total aging per DOCG regulation.
What critics say
Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva receives consistently solid reviews as a well-made traditional Chianti Classico Riserva.
Pairing
Grilled lamb chops, baked pasta with meat sauce, aged Pecorino