Rocca delle Macìe Chianti Classico Riserva 2020 (75cl, 13.5%)

A Sangiovese-driven red from the Chianti Classico zone in Tuscany, produced by Rocca delle Macìe, an estate founded in 1973 by Italo Zingarelli. The blend is 90% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Colorino, matured in 35-hectolitre French oak barrels for approximately two years, then refined for a minimum of three months in bottle. The nose opens with black pepper, grilled meat, graphite and hot tar, with mushroom, wet leaves and dark fruit beneath. The palate shows black cherry, plum, dark chocolate, blackcurrant, firm but well-integrated tannins, lively acidity and sweet spice from the oak. The finish has orange pith astringency, cedar, dried cherry and subtle pepper.