Kirkland Signature Chianti Classico Reserva 2011

Chianti Classico is a region in Tuscany and the wine bearing that regional name must be at least 80% Sangiovese and be aged in oak for at least 24 months. A Chianti Classico wine will always have the famous rooster symbol on the bottle.

The Kirkland Chianti Classico Reserva is 100% Sangiovese and has benn aged 24 months in second year French oak barrels and 5 to 6 months in the bottle before release. The wine is medium body but intense dark red color. The flavor is ripe dark cherry. It is dry and acidic in flavor, which I certainly realized when I followed a glass of this wine with another familiar wine that seemed sweet for the first time.

I think this is an excellent example of a Chianti Classico wine. The Sangiovese has a distinct flavor that just seems perfect to pair with a garlic red tomato sauce. This wine has a richer, stronger flavor than the average Chianti Classico and you can enjoy it now or keep it for future enjoyment. The wine has 13.5% alcohol and Costco sells it for $8.69, which is a great price.

SC Wine Joe rating = 89 points

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