The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Marchese Antinori is Sangiovese enhanced with touches of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Renzo Cotarella and the extended technical team at Marchesi Antinori are working hard on perfecting their tannin management, and the beautiful results are evident across this line of new releases from the classic 2016 vintage. The finish is silky and long, and the tannins are never dry. The fruit is evident and bright with wild cherry, rose and Italian garden herb.

The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Marchese Antinori emerges entirely from Antinori's Tignanello estate. Plump and forward, with juicy dark fruit, the Marchese Antinori is done in a decidedly modern, lush style. Mocha, sweet spice, licorice and black plum meld into the creamy finish. The 2016 is attractive, but I can't help thinking a lighter hand in the cellar might yield a wine with greater finesse and expression of place.

A contemporary style, displaying plum, cherry, leather, resin and vanilla flavors, this is a big red, with tannins that are on the burly side, yet this has ample sweet fruit too. Needs steak. Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2022 through 2033. 5,000 cases imported. — BS