Chianti Montalbano Riserva 2021, Cantagallo, Tuscany

Generous, approachable and balanced, this affordable Riserva is from the smallest and most northerly of the Chianti subzones, to the south of the beautiful hill of Montalbano. This wine is full of bright red cherry notes that lead to bramble fruits and a delightful palate of integrated spice, tea-leaf and notes of peach, leather and fresh-cut timber. It is classy and classic and remarkably tasty.

Made using large 1500 hectolitre barrels, this wine is made only from Sangiovese and is aged for one year in the barrel and one in bottle before its release to the market. This ageing allows for softening of tannins and refining of flavour, both of which we all seem to seek in the classic European Riserva-style offerings. This is no exception and delivers such generosity of complex flavours without having to resort to concentration, weight or wine making trickery. This is hands-off and as natural as you'd dare. 

92 Points from Wine Spectator.

Last Tasted: December 2025