Frescobaldi's Perano estate is putting out wonderful Chianti Classicos with a modern polish. Their Rialzi Gran Selezione is a grand wine, especially from the brilliant 2021 vintage, with great aromatic intensity, focus on the palate, and a tapered finish that features a fruity-savory combination that's delicious! It's full-bodied, but well-balanced overall, with coated, soft tannins and a warm, citrusy side that's classic Chianti. Their oak aging is deft, leaving a well-meshed balsamic character, with some roasted accents reminiscent of cocoa and coffee. A perfect wine for meat braises, lamb roasts, and rich, savory sauces.
JAMES SUCKLING 96 POINTS
VINOUS 94 POINTS - "The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Rialzi exudes concentration, richness and power. Dark-toned fruit, new leather, chocolate, incense [resinous, woodsy, peppery and citrusy] and espresso wrap around the palate. There's a bit more sweetness and richness than in the Riserva, and yet the character of this Gaiole site still comes through nicely." - Antonio Galloni
Rialzi is a vineyard at 500 meters (~1600ft) above sea level and based on Albarese soils (crumbled limestone), contributing a freshness to the aromatic profile and mouthfeel. South-west exposure contributes to the ripely fruited profile and softer tannins. Aged 2 years in barriques (small French oak barrels) provide the rich cocoa and coffee accents along with oak spice like vanilla and cinnamon.
JAMES SUCKLING 96 POINTS
VINOUS 94 POINTS - "The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Rialzi exudes concentration, richness and power. Dark-toned fruit, new leather, chocolate, incense [resinous, woodsy, peppery and citrusy] and espresso wrap around the palate. There's a bit more sweetness and richness than in the Riserva, and yet the character of this Gaiole site still comes through nicely." - Antonio Galloni
Rialzi is a vineyard at 500 meters (~1600ft) above sea level and based on Albarese soils (crumbled limestone), contributing a freshness to the aromatic profile and mouthfeel. South-west exposure contributes to the ripely fruited profile and softer tannins. Aged 2 years in barriques (small French oak barrels) provide the rich cocoa and coffee accents along with oak spice like vanilla and cinnamon.
