Chianti Rufina Riserva Vigneto Erchi
2016
Located in the hills east of Florence, Chianti Rufina is a very small appellation of just 600 hectares (for comparison, Chianti Classico covers a vast 7,000 hectares – virtually the entire zone between Florence and Siena). By reputation the wines are both more refined and more backward than other Chiantis – presumably a function of Rufina’s mix of galestro, limestone and clay soils, higher altitude, proximity to the inland Apennines, and cooler microclimate combining to produce later...
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Perfumed and all about finesse, this focused red (the result of a long-term project) is the latest addition to the firm's stellar lineup. It opens with enticing aromas of fragrant purple flower, wild berry, truffle, baking spice and a whiff of crushed herb. Smooth and radiant, it delivers crushed cherry, raspberry compote, mint and star anise flavors set against taut polished tannins. Bright acidity lends balance and tension.
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A new wine in the range, the 2016 Chianti Rufina Vigneto Erchi is off the charts. The purest essence of Sangiovese emerges from a wine that combines power with translucent finesse. Bright acids and citrus accents perk up the red Sangiovese fruit. Initially a bit austere, the 2016 gains volume with time in the glass. The Erchi emerges from a relatively new parcel for the state planted with cuttings from Bucerchiale. Compared to that wine, the Erchi has a much more red-fruited profile and also appears to handle aging in French oak better. The 2016 is a stellar debut. Don't miss it.
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