Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2021

Wine Spectator : 95 Points

(10/31/2024) This expressive red features cherry, blackberry, pomegranate and orange peel aromas and flavors. Mineral and wild herb accents add depth as this cruises to the long finish, offering terrific balance and length. Though impressive now, this should evolve nicely. Best from 2026 through 2042. 5,000 cases made, 3,000 cases imported.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni : 94 Points

(6/2024) The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva is fabulous. Vibrant and translucent in the glass, it offers so much pedigree. Dark cherry, leather, licorice, tobacco and lavender are some of the many nuances that open in the glass. Readers will find a deceptively mid-weight Riserva endowed with notable poise. Drinking Window: 2025 - 2036.

Jeb Dunnuck : 94 Points

(5/7/2026) A reflective red color with depth, the 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva is coming together beautifully. It has a balance of power and finesse, with cherry cordial, crushed flowers, sweet sage, and forest mossy earth. The palate is bright and savory with more orange peel, bright spices, and cranberries. It has more tension and nervous energy and is more nervous than the 2023. Drink 2026-2042.

Decanter : 94 Points

(9/30/2025) The Volpaia story is intricately connected to the Florentine Renaissance – one of the early owners was a friend of Leonardo da Vinci. This organic, 100% Sangiovese comes from vineyards at up to 600m and spends 24 months in oak casks and at least three months in bottle before release. It offers aromas of dusty red cherry, ripe tomato, aged balsamic, tobacco, a hint of game and the distinctive firmness, bite and savour of Radda UGA. Drinking Window: 2025 - 2035.

James Suckling : 93 Points

(7/13/2024) A textured, driven and flavorful riserva with aromas of dark cherries, wild currants, dried herbs and some stones. It’s medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Focused and precise, with a velvety core of succulent cherries at the center and a solid and harmonious frame of tannins. Lively and flavorful finish with excellent length. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

Wine Advocate : 93 Points

(7/25/2024) In the bottle with the black label, the Volpaia 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Volpaia (made with certified organic fruit) shows impeccable balance with fresh acidity and lots of bright primary fruit, cherry and blackcurrant. The tannins are powdery and give enough structure to cement a pleasant sense of firmness. In all, the wine is very true to Sangiovese. Production is 60,000 bottles. Drink Date 2024 - 2030.