Badia a Passignano Chianti Classico Riserva

Badia a Passignano is one of the most historically significant vineyards in Chianti Classico: The over 1000-year-old monastery estate lies above Sambuca Val di Pesa, just three kilometers from the Tignanello estate. Pure Sangiovese grapes grow here on calcareous soil at an altitude of 250 to 300 meters, and their origins have been documented in Florentine state archives for centuries.

Antinori produces this Riserva only in the best vintages, using the estate's carefully selected grapes. Aging: 14 months in barriques, followed by 12 months of bottle aging. In the glass, a deep ruby ​​red. The nose offers red fruit, raspberry, blueberry, and ripe cherry, with a hint of licorice on the finish. On the palate, velvety, ripe tannins, remarkable length, and vibrant acidity—a classic structure with modern approachability. Parker awarded 94 points, and Suckling 96 for the 2016 vintage.

Drinking window: now until 2030+. Recommendation: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised leg of lamb or aged Pecorino Toscano.