About the Wine 

The Antinori family has been committed to the art of winemaking for over six centuries since 1385 when Giovanni di Piero Antinori became a member, of the “Arte Fiorentina dei Vinattieri”, the Florentine Winemakers’ Guild.

Villa Antinori is an important cornerstone as its name is associated with over 100 years of history. At the same time it represents ongoing progress. The one essential principle is continuous research for increasingly higher quality standards. This idea produced two different wines that share a common passion for quality: Villa Antinori Rosso and Villa Antinori Bianco. Villa Antinori was originally produced in 1928 by Marchese Niccolò Antinori as a Chianti Classico that could age and that would improve over time. Soon after, Villa Antinori was found in the most prestigious cellars in embassies, royal houses, important hotels, and restaurants.

Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva is a blend of Sangiovese together with other complementary varieties produced as a tribute to Antinori’s historic label that has accompanied the family’s winemaking traditions over the years. The inauguration of the new winery Antinori in Chianti Classico inspired the family to reinterpret this Tuscan classic into a premium quality wine with unmistakable style. The resulting Riserva is delicate, decisive, and elegant.

Tasting Notes: Red wine. Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva 2016 presents an intense ruby red as a color. The nose shows notes of ripe red fruit, wild cherries, and sensations of dried wildflowers along with spicy aromas of cinnamon and a pleasurable balsamic finish. The palate is balanced, savory, and vibrant with a long and persistent aftertaste which brings back the wine’s ample spicy aromas and flavors.

Reviews

Black currant, cedar, olive, iron, and tobacco aromas and flavors suggest Cabernet in the blend, in a positive sense. This red is fluid, elegant, and firmly structured, with fine balance and a long, gripping finish. The taut profile shows the potential for aging. Best from 2022 through 2038. 6,000 cases imported. ~93 Wine Spectator

The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Antinori (made with Sangiovese and a tiny bit of Merlot to soften out the edges) is a linear and broad red wine that would pair with simple meat or pasta dishes. You get tons of fruit here with cherry, blackberry, and a touch of soft baking spice woven in on the close. This pretty vintage is focused and sharp in character. ~ 92 Wine Advocate

A firm and fresh Chianti Classico with wet earth and spice and hints of mushrooms. Full-to medium-bodied, structured and tannic, yet very polished and refined. Delicious and elegant. Drink now or hold.~92 James Suckling