Badia a Passignano Chianti Classico Riserva

The Badia a Passignano is one of the most historically significant sites in Chianti Classico: the over 1000-year-old monastery estate is located above Sambuca Val di Pesa, just three kilometers from the Tignanello estate. On calcareous soil between 250 and 300 meters above sea level, pure Sangiovese grows here, whose origins have been documented in Florentine state archives for centuries.

Antinori produces this Riserva only in the best vintages from the estate's selected grapes. Aging: 14 months in barriques, then 12 months of bottle aging. Deep ruby red in the glass. Red fruit, raspberry, blueberry, and ripe cherry on the nose, a hint of licorice in the finish. Velvety, ripe tannins on the palate, clear length, and an invigorating acidity — classic structure with modern accessibility. Parker awarded 94 points, Suckling 96 for the 2016 vintage.

Recommendation: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised leg of lamb, or aged Pecorino Toscano.