Castello Di Monsanto Il Poggio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2019

Castello Di Monsanto Il Poggio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2019 is an exceptionally structured, elegant, and deeply complex Italian red wine from the historic estate that pioneered Tuscany’s very first single-vineyard single-estate cru back in 1962. Pouring a vibrant ruby red with slight garnet reflections, this masterfully crafted Sangiovese-dominant blend uncoils with an intensely aromatic bouquet of sour cherries, wild raspberries, and crushed violets, layered beautifully with notes of dried sage, sweet tobacco leaf, cedar, and flinty volcanic minerals. On the palate, it reveals a medium-to-full body characterized by a muscular and tightly wound framework. A succulent core of dark red fruits is matched perfectly against an energetic vein of steely acidity and fine-grained, chalky mountain tannins developed during 20 months of meticulous aging in large oak casks. Reflecting the magnificent character of the 2019 growing season, it drifts into an incredibly long, savory, and focused finish marked by persistent nuances of orange peel, tar, and warm spices.

Food Pairing: Pairs spectacularly with grilled Bistecca alla Fiorentina, slow-cooked wild boar ragù, roasted rosemary lamb chops, or an earthy wild mushroom truffle risotto.

96 Points - James Suckling

A very succulent wine with raspberry, cherry, cranberry, orange peel and floral aromas and flavors. It’s medium-bodied with firm, velvety tannins that run the length of the wine and a clean finish. Drinkable now, but will improve with age.

96 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The Castello di Monsanto 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Il Poggio offers a twofold approach with plenty of fresh cherry fruit and blueberry on the one hand, countered by light age and spice from balanced winemaking on the other. There are subtle hints of clove and toasted spice on the mid-weight close.

96 Points - Wine Spectator

Earth and wild herb aromas segue to cherry, strawberry and pomegranate flavors in this muscular version. Tar, earth, iron and sanguine elements chime in, adding depth as well as a toughness that will require some years to refine. The core of ripe fruit reveals this red's future promise. Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Best from 2027 through 2045.