The 2017 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Volpaia is an immensely rewarding, inviting wine. Juicy and racy, with no hard edges, the Riserva captures the allure of this warm, dry year. There is plenty to like in the 2017, starting with its depth and volume, I won't be surprised if the Riserva turns out to be even better than this note suggests. Sweet red fruit, cedar and blood orange give the 2017 striking aromatic intensity and lift.

A red with plenty of ripe fruit, such as berries and cherries with some fresh-herb and lemon undertones. It’s medium-to full-bodied with bright fruit and fine tannins. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

Volpaia's Riserva is typically selected from the estate's highest parcels reaching 600 meters of elevation. As the hot 2017 vintage yielded small bunches and small berry with ripe skins but less ripe seeds, fermentation and maceration times were shortened for a gentler extraction. Indeed, this is quite soft with sweet, plump cherry buoyed by rather snappy acidity. Some dried floral nuances lend intrigue. Overall polished and polite but not for the long-haul. Drinking window 2020-2025.