WA 90 WS 92 - Antonio Galloni Wine Advocate 90 Points Monsanto's 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva is simply beautiful. The opulent, forward fruit that is typical of the year is present, but a firm sense of structure keeps things from going over the top. If that sounds appealing, believe me, it is. Dark red fruit, flowers, minerals and spices come together beautifully in this serious Riserva. A round, harmonious finish rounds things off in style. Readers will have a hard time doing better for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. Monsanto is a reference-point producer for fine Chianti. The estate's top bottlings have a brilliant track record, but these entry-level wines deliver almost as much pleasure at much more accessible prices. Wine Spectator 92 Points This ripe, juicy red is full of sanguine notes, along with black cherry and blackberry flavors. The tannins are well-coated by fleshy fruit and it lingers with a long, spicy aftertaste. Best from 2012 through 2022. 12,000 cases imported.-BS

The estate's 2006 Chianti Classico Riserva is delicious. Black cherries, herbs, tobacco and spices come together in a dark, brooding expression of Sangiovese framed by big, massive tannins. This finish is long and intense. Today the wine requires serious patience, but there is little question that it will be superb in a few years time. I can't wait to see what Monsanto has done with its top of the line Il Poggio in this vintage. In the meantime, the 2006 Chianti Classico Riserva is a highlight; and a terrific value as well. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2026.

Can age another 3 or 4 years and get better. Dark ruby red with violets and blueberries on the nose. Well balanced. Better with food.

almost like crushed violet flwrs blueberry

garys