2006 Felsina Berardenga, Chianti Classico Riserva (RT 93) Bought on release and stored in my cellar since, this is the second bottle from a case. Cork pulled mid-afternoon and SO’d until the first pour a few hours later. Showing a deep, ruby-russet hue with the slightest hints of bricking at the rim. Pungent aromatics emerge from the glass, centered on clean, bright aspects that punctuate this fresh, structured vintage. Dark cherry, hints of underbrush buttressed with an energized floral element lead the charge to a clean and highly focused palate feel. The impression of premium quality winemaking emerges, crafted on firm, perfectly ripe and tannin. The acidity is refreshing, while the tannins have begun to integrate. This is a superb Chianti Classico Riserva from an outstanding vintage, bravo to team at Felsina for their outstanding practice of the craft focused on Sangiovese. At age 12 this is showing extremely well. Drink 2019 – 2029+. This vintage can be acquired in the US market in the +/- $40 range, the price being mostly driven (escalated) by the demand for this fabulous vintage.
2009 Felsina Berardenga, Chianti Classico Riserva (RT 90+) Following on the heels on the 2006, coming from a lesser vintage, the 2009 didn’t rise to the lofty standards of the mighty 2006, yet still proved a solid performer in terms of delivering drinking satisfaction. Not showing the lifted, energized aromatics of its 2006 brethren, it reveals a dark, brooding hue, typical of this bottling. The bouquet still needs some time to come together, as does the palate feel, both of which are currently revealing some fragmented elements. Give this another few years to come together and drink from 2022-2032+ This vintage can be found in the $25-30 range.