Chianti Classico Riserva by Castell'in Villa 2017

"Latest release and coming to market as Riserva for Castell’In Villa is 2017, of course and for all the right reasons. Is there an equal in Chianti Classico for this conditioning of 100 percent sangiovese raised in traditional ways that age concurrent with their modern ability to deliver joy and profundity in equal ways? The answer is hard to find and so what comes from ’17 and Castelnuovo Berardenga’s vineyards in surround of the borgo and dressed throughout the forests is in fact nothing short of profound. One of the only wines in the entire territory that need not be spoken about in terms of fruit, acidity and tannin. The approach is different, in how senses, feelings and emotions are solicited and how responses are metered to consider in terms of gravity and other physical forces at work. Ethereality is an obtuse description, as was profundity but they are what they are and the things that come to mind. Sorry, not sorry. Drink 2026-2038. Tasted February 2024

96 Points - Michael Godel, Wine Align, Feb 2023

"Octogenarian Princess Coralia Pignatelli della Leonessa is never in a rush to put her wines on the market, and has just released this striking 2017 Riserva. It hails from a notoriously hot and arid vintage, possessing the substance and structure that Pignatelli demands of the Riserva category. Unhurried in its reveal, toasted hazelnut, exotic spice, dried flowers and eventually red and black currants trickle out in measured progression. This simmers with intensity yet shuts down in the glass. Upfront structure is composed of compact tannins and steely, linear acidity that slices the palate. Irony minerals and dusty earth poke through the dense, dark fruit core, lingering persistently on the finish. It is reassuring to see the princess’ son, Luigi taking an interest in this venerated estate."

95 points - Michaela Morris, Decanter Magazine, Feb 2024