Description
“Black cherry, blackberry and violet notes permeate this fresh, detailed red. Solidly structured, with fine harmony, expression and length. Just beginning to reveal woodsy, mushroom and underbrush elements, this red is approachable now but will be better in a year or two. Fine length. Best from 2027 through 2049. 1,100 cases made, 400 cases imported. ” – 95 points, Wine Spectator (June 30, 2026)
You will undoubtedly tire of me repeating the greatness found in Tuscany’s long awaited 2021 vintage which has already been rated at 99 points by Wine Spectator. This rating applies not only to Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and the Bolgheri coast, but the often overlooked Chianti Classico zone too! Prices continue to elevate because high demand and limited production, cost of transportation, and tariffs. But the good news is our ability to still find the best for the least expense!
In the Chianti Classico zone the once highest quality classification DOCG “Riserva” has now been surpassed by the superior “Gran Selezione” designation which is meant to represent a winery’s very finest production. The majority of Chianti wines receiving Gran Selezione status range in price from the mid-$80s to $150+ a bottle. To qualify for this very special “stamp of approval” the wine must be sourced from 100% estate fruit (at least of which 90% must be Sangiovese). Furthermore, the wine must be aged for a minimum of 30 months before its release. We prefer a specific reference identifying the winery’s estate vineyard source, in this case “Capannino” which is located in the Castellina commune.
The last time we were able to secure any quantity of Bibbiano’s amazing Capannino Vineyard’s Gran Selezione was the absolutely brilliant 2016 vintage. Only produced in the best vintage years, I have been fortunate to receive a small allocation of the 2021 from the winery’s New York importer who does not have representation here in Northern California. Call it luck, good networking, and perseverance. I expect to take delivery June 5th. No payment due until that time.
This is one of those “mesmerizing” wines that will exceed all expectations and redefine one’s opinion of Sangiovese outside of the village of Montalcino. This is a well-structured wine with riveting fruit and savory, nuanced complexity! Serve it with a char-grilled, thick cut of prime rib-eye steak after it has been rubbed with minced garlic, rosemary and black pepper. Carve and drizzle with EVOO and a sprinkle of smoked sea salt. Together an absolute showstopper.