2004 Antinori Toscana
This used to be a Chianti Classico Riserva but now is an IGT Toscana. It also was one of the first wines back in 1997 that I bought using the web and cellared by the case. Now, it is a blend of 60% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet, 15% Merlot, and 5% Syrah. Around $24 Ohio. Ruby in color with some purple swirls. The nose is cherries, raspberries, smoke, grilled meat and leather. Nice. On the palate, this is fruit forward with lots of cherries and raspberries. It is a very drinkable wine, but not the Chianti I remember that had such great acidity that it woke up my palate and improved food. Now it is a wine to serve at BBQ’s, notwithstanding the much higher price. Oh well, a classic example of the “internationalization” of wine. Sometimes it’s a good thing and sometimes maybe not. Antinori still makes a Chianti and perhaps after 500 years in business they do know their markets. 50+4+12+16+6=88