2017 Chianti Classico Tasting - Toronto

Chianti wine was mentioned at the beginning of the 15^th century, but officially delimited by Cosimo III, Grand Duke Of Tuscany, in 1716.

Now there are two distinct areas –

Chianti Classico ( as per 1716 declaration), and Chianti surrounding the original area.
Since, the first classification, Chianti has gone through several evolutions.

Today, there are three levels of quality designations,
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione,
Chianti Classico Riserva,
Chianti Classico Annata.

All must comply with strict rules and regulations of the Chianti Classico Black Rooster Association.
The wines of Chianti Classico are exported to 130 countries.

The biggest importer is the U S A, mostly due to Italian immigration and popularity of Italian restaurants in the country, followed by Germany, and Canada.

Chianti Classico wineries visit Toronto annually offering seminars for the trade and media, then follow up with a tasting. In 2017, 28 wineries participated, and poured approximately 80 wines of which I tasted 50 plus.

My recommendations are:

Chianti Classico

2014, Borgo Scopeto
92/100
Will be offered in December by Vintages

2011 Certosa di Pontignano, Dievole
89/100

2014 Berardenga, Fattoria Felsina
89/100

2014, Il Molino di Grace
89/100

2014, Le Fonti, Le Fonti Panzano
91+/100

2014, Poggio Bonelli, Poggio Bonelli
89/100

2015, Terre di Prenzano, Vignamaggio
88+/100

Chianti Classico Riserva

2012, Misciano, Borgo Scopeto
92+/100

2013, Carobbio
89+/100