Chianti Riserva Rodano Chianti Classico Riserva 2001 Viacosta is a single estate Chianti riserva wine. This Chianti Classico is aged for 3 years before coming to market. Sixty percent of the cuvée spends 20 months in large oak botte, the other 40% in barrique, half of which are new. It is intense in color with an ample bouquet. On the palate it is superbly structured and exhibits perfectly integrated wood. It's everything you expect from the Sangiovese, a great Chianti from Italy. Drink through 2017.

Fattoria di Rodano is located in the heart of the Chianti Classico in the famed region of Castellina in Chianti. The original farm dates back from the middle ages, when it was used as a lodge for pilgrims travelling from northern Europe to Rome. Its pristine vineyard that spread to over 100 hectares is located at 200-300 metres above sea level, is the perfect location to create classic, soulful Chianti Classico. The estate has been in the Pozzesi family since the 1700s. Vittorio Pozzesi, is the President of the Chianti Classico Consortium, and he runs the winery along with his son Enrico and winemaker Giulio Gambelli. The pride and joy of the property is their Viacosta vineyard, a south-facing vineyard of 35- to-45-year-old vines. The wines are aged in a combination of traditional Slovenian botte grande and small barriques. The result is wine that combines pure fruit and a spirit of earthiness. The vineyards are constantly being replanted with the newest Sangiovese clones and double density vines per hectare. The Chianti Classico Riserva Viacosta is made from 100% Sangiovese.60% of the wine spends 20 months in large oak botte, the remainder in small barrels – half of which are new. Initial concentrated flavours of classic bitter cherry and smoked almonds open out to an impeccably balanced palate showing plenty of dark chocolate, black cherries and cigar box aromas. The finish displays a dash of vanilla and cedar from the French oak aging. Forward red and black fruits are lush and coat the mouth, while chewy tannins offer up a powerful grip.

RATINGS: 90 Points - Wine Advocate - Robert Parker
"The Rodano 2001 Chianti Classico Riserva Viacosta reveals a powerful, earthy personality with plenty of dark fruit and an attractive sweetness from the oak that comes through on the finish. Already showing some early signs of development, it is an ideal choice for drinking today and over the next decade. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2017." June 2007.

92 Points - Wine & Spirits Magazine