($29, Folio Fine Wine Partners): Frescobaldi, one of Italy’s finest producers, owns estates throughout Tuscany.  Their Nipozzano estate is home to their splendid line of Chianti from the often-overlooked Rùfina subzone of that region.  This bottling is from the oldest vines (Vecchie Viti) on the property.  A thrilling wine, it’s well proportioned and vibrant with an appealing smoky richness.  A sophisticated wine made from predominantly Sangiovese (90%), the other traditional indigenous grapes of the region, Malvasia nera, Colorino and Canaiolo, round out the blend.  The dark sour cherry-like notes and earthy nuances would make it a terrific choice for a grilled veal chop this fall.
93 Michael Apstein Oct 14, 2014