Castello di Monsanto Il Poggio Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 1999

95 Points - Doctorwine

A luminous ruby-garnet. Already from its aroma, initially closed and then extremely deep, one can tell that something different took place in the wine-making. In fact, the period of maceration extended to a month from the classic three weeks. This was done due to the richness of the harvest and the particularly integral poly-phenolic component. The nose profile is thus very broad, ethereal, with scents of black cherry under spirits, then camphor, tobacco, sweet spices and even balsamic and resiny accents. The taste is immense, with robust and youthful tannins, a significant body with great persistence. A wine that is still young and could easily not be understood and that has a long life ahead of it. The first vintage using 100% new wood.

18+ Points - Jancis Robinson MW

Another five-star-rated vintage, the winter preceding 1999 was mild and wet which proved an advantage because the months of July and August were hot with average day temperatures seldom below 28 °C. September saw a little rainfall, which helped the grapes reach perfect ripeness. Youthful mid ruby with just the beginning of orange. Complex, almost heady but classy Sangiovese nose and unusually rich for Il Poggio with noticeable oak notes. Quite backward on the palate but with vibrancy and well balanced. Juicy lifted fruit and clinging tannin. Massive but supportive tannin and with a seemingly never-ending finish. Wow!