2009 Castello Di Ama Chianti Classico

2009 Castello Di Ama Chianti Classico Riserva 13.5% ABV  $33

This producer is one that provides "next level" Chianti perennially. The immediate first impression on the nose

is of depth, darkness, and complexity. The beautiful rich dark fruit, black cherry and blackberry, has a pleasant hard edge that suggests seriousness. Overlying the fruit is cedar, dried violets, charred sandalwood, faint vanilla bean, and subtle spice cake aromas. The palate is mid weight and mildly chewy. With the dark fruit leading the way again, the palate shows lean black cherry, dried flowers, and subtle grilled meat. Very firm and structured, but still quite approachable because of the fine fruit component. There is a long savory finish, with minerality and fine grained grip. Big and balanced, this will certainly reward cellaring. 92 Pts

Check out Levi Dalton's interview with Castello Di Ama director Marco Pallanti, on the I'll Drink to That! podcsast.

Castello Dei Rampolla - Sammarco 1997

Castello Dei Rampola, Sammarco 1997, IGT 13% ABV

Solid and full of character, this has not faded like some other '97's. With solid, dark, red plum and black cherry skins giving it a fullness on the nose and a rich core, it is very much alive and well. Other notes on the complex nose include dry underbrush, forest floor, rare roast beef, dark incense, and some black pepper. The palate has plenty of backbone, with firm acidity and  somewhat chewy tannins. Savory, with more black cherry skins, incense, and some dried floral notes. The finish is lingering and carries through the savoriness. Late notes of dark tobacco developed on the nose. There is no sign that this is near its crest. Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Sangiovese and Merlot. A real pleasure. 92 Pts