Blind Tasting of 12 Chianti/Sangiovese

Attended another blind tasting last night hosted by Greg dal Piaz of Snooth, and I'll be posting 4 flights of 3 wines each over the next 24 hours. Here is the first flight:



2005 Cosentino Il Chiaretto California 14.8% $18

With 92% Sangiovese and equal parts of 2% Petite Sirah, Early Burgundy, Merlot and Alicante, this is aged approximately 13 months in small barrels, and bottled unfined. On the nose resinous leather, fruit, white pepper, plastic wrap, high alcohol, with a palate of sour cherries, licorice sticks or twizzlers, and a woodsy profile... tasting like a Merlot blend.



2006 Ruffino Santedame Chianti Classico DOCG 13.5% $18

85% Sangiovese and remainder composed of various other reds, the alcohol fermentation took place in thermo-controlled stainless-steel vats for 10 days. Post-fermentative maceration on the skins continued for another 7 days. After completing the malolactic fermentation one part of the wine was refined for about 8 months, first in oak barrels, then in tanks and finally in bottle.

Very muted aromas of wet earth, structured tannins, with moody layers of white chalk, ash and a dark finish.

2007 Flora Springs Napa valley 14.2% $15

On the nose cranberry candy with a vegetal swash of green peppers, cologne and manure, while the flavors are earthy and cedar.