This is so classy, with finesse and sensitivity that are so mesmerizing. It’s delicate and almost weightless, with a beautiful and energetic fruit and acid balance. It’s medium-bodied and extremely long. Medium chewy. It goes on and on. Dark cherries, bark and lots of flowers in the finish. Drinkable now, but better in two or three years and beyond.

Ricasoli's flagship wine is a blend of grapes from vineyards in Gaiole on the main soil types of Chianti Classico: macigno (sandstone), galestro and alberese. The fruit is vinified in stainless steel and aged for 22 months in tonneaux, 30% new. Subtle dark cherry and spiced plum notes emerge, followed in the mouth by a gloriously vertical structure where the succulent fruit floats and the zesty edges vibrate with energy. The fruit has wonderful sapidity, and the tannins are supportive but play a background role. Absolute class. (Drink between 2025-2041)

Now identified by the Gaiole subregion on the back label, the Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio reveals a beautiful bouquet that is packed tight with carefully ripened fruit. There is a sweet spot in terms of aromas with a hint of candied cherry that is folded into iris root, dried mint and spice. This generous Sangiovese ends with lasting freshness. - Monica Larner

A core of ripe cherry, plum and pomegranate pervades this vibrant, complex red. A balanced version, with a firm grip on the finish complementing its fresh acidity. The long aftertaste echoes the fruit and evokes mineral and Mediterranean scrub elements. Best from 2026 through 2043. - BS

The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio is redolent of red-toned Sangiovese fruit, white pepper, cedar, tobacco, incense and dried herbs. Bright and complex in the glass, with terrific energy, the Riserva is another fine offering from the Ricasoli family. In fact, the 2021 is one of the finest editions I can recall tasting. -- Antonio Galloni