San Felice Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva 2011

Synopsis, Our Opinion: An EXCELLENT Chianti Classico that was a good value.

Producer/Winery: Agricola San Felice; Castelnuovo Berardenga, Italy.

Grape Variety: Sangiovese.

Geographic Appellation: Chianti Classico; Tuscany, Italy.

Vintage: 2011

Price: $19.95

Purchased From: Woodland Hills Wine Company; Woodland Hills, California.

Paired With: Pork ragout with cranberries and asparagus on pasta.

Tasting:

    He said: Opened one hour before drinking. Opaque, dark brownish ruby color. Musty cherry aroma. Lots of body, dry mouth-puckering and a bit rough and ready; tobacco and cherry flavors with gobs of tartness, packed with peppery spice, long chewy tannins and abundant zesty acidity. Of note is the dry after-taste that sticks to both the teeth and mouth. A Very potent Chianti that’s A WHOLE LOT BETTER than “pizza wine”. Every sip improved, and in the end I would say this was an EXCELLENT Chianti Classico that was a good value.

    She said: Opaque, dark ruby red color with lots of chubby legs moving quickly. I have generally liked Chianti but didn’t get excited over this one at first. The mild aroma was more herbal than fruity although the overall flavor was delicious. The mouth-feel was dry and had a smooth texture with firm tannins that encouraged me to lick my lips and run my tongue over my teeth. The finish was very long because of the mouth-feel that persisted rather than the flavors. It went well with the dinner and was great shipping afterwards as it became more tasty with each pour. I have had better Chianti but not at this price and I would easily buy it again but be sure to decant it.

Agricola San Felice vineyard near Siena, Italy
Comments: Learn more about San Felice an their wines.

Alcohol Content: 14.5%

UPC Code: 7 09067 11009 6

Imported by: San Felice USA’ Manhasset, New York.

Photo from San Felice.