Istine, a small highly regarded family-owned Chianti Classico producer, has a familiar winegrowing history. The Fronti family started an agricultural supply business, used their knowledge of the terrain to acquire vineyards, started selling wine in bulk, and then, in 2009, started bottling their own wine. They now have 50-acres mainly in Radda, where the cooling effect of the lofty elevation of their vineyards (roughly 1,600 feet above sea level) helped them enormously during the hot 2023 vintage. Istine’s suavely textured 2023 Chianti Classico delivers a harmonious amalgamation of dark fruit and earthy, almost meaty, savory elements. Bright and lively, this mid-weight beauty remains fresh and invigorating throughout a meal. It would be an excellent choice for roasted meats tonight.
95 Michael Apstein – March 4, 2026