Chianti Classico "Riserva", Banfi, IT, 2023 (Mariani Family)

Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva 2023

The 2023 Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG has a 92/100 from James Suckling, with the review describing it as round and polished, showing walnuts, ripe red berries and delicate spice. It is medium-bodied, with a velvety texture, fresh fruit and a harmonious, approachable finish. Suckling recommends drinking now or holding. JJamesSuckling.com+1

Professional rating: 92/100 James Suckling. Current published sources also list 92/100 Wine Spectator, although the tasting note shown by retailers appears to duplicate the Suckling description, so I would treat the Wine Spectator attribution cautiously until independently confirmed. WWine.com

Overall assessment: 92/100 — a polished, fruit-forward Riserva with good freshness and approachable tannins. The 2023 looks particularly suited to near-term drinking rather than extended cellaring.

Castello Banfi is a family-owned vineyard estate and winery located in the Brunello region of Tuscany. This award-winning estate was founded on the philosophy of blending tradition with innovation, and is recognized as a pioneer in elevating the standards of Italian winemaking. Dedication to excellence has won the approval of aficionados the world over. Capturing honor after prestigious honor, Castello Banfi is a constellation of single vineyards encompassing over three dozen varying subsoils. The estate is renowned for its clonal research that allows noble grape varieties to thrive in their optimal terroir, creating not only a consistently outstanding Brunello, but the ultimate expression of Montalcino Super Tuscans.