The 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano is a pure expression of Sangiovese. Fruit is sourced from the San Donato area of the appellation that is not an official subzone yet but is increasingly emerging as such. This wine is distinguished by a beautiful level of openness and softness (on the Sangiovese spectrum, which means you also get a bright dose of acidity). That softness or lushness comes in part due to the warm vintage but also thanks to the winemaking approach that relies on larger barrels (from 300 to 500 liters) and Hungarian oak that tends to be more porous and thickly textured for increased passage of oxygen. The wine offers beautiful balance between its dark fruit and savory spice comments. This Chianti Classico Gran Selezione was not produced in 2014.

100% Sangiovese. Aged in 225-litre, 300-litre and 500-litre Hungarian oak casks for 12 months. Bright dark crimson. Really lifted, aérien in its aroma. Super-transparent and 21st century. Very zesty with some grainy pinch on the end. (JR)

San Casciano in Val di Pesa. 100% Sangiovese. Deep ruby with orange tinges. Open-knit, accessible, ripe fruit nose with a hint of oak. Lovely chew and richness of fruit, but while it is hugely likeable, it is not for the long haul and lacks a little in complexity to really convince. (WS)