As a child growing up in the 1970’s I have many fond memories of watching that cartoon hero Bugs Bunny. Every day he used to wake up in his hole, stretch out and say “Another day, another carrot”…..
I get the same sort of feeling whenever I open a new vintage of Felsina’s Chianti Classico. It’s as if, regardless of the vintage, the sun always shines on the Felsina estate. Such is their consistency. They are a giant of Chianti Classico.
Last night it was time to uncork the newest vintage release; their 2011 Chianti Classico. 2011 was a variable vintage in Tuscany. Sandwiched between the exemplary 2010 and 2012 vintages, it may get slightly lost in the shuffle. However, the vintage was strongest in Chianti Classico and there was no let down at Felsina.
The 2011 is a medium dark violet color with faint lightening toward the edge of the glass. The aromas of the wine expanded noticeably with dinner. There is a sizeable swath of crushed wild berry fruit emanating from the glass that is accented with pretty flowers, fennel and freshly turned earth. It’s lovely. On the palate, it’s full speed ahead. The core of fruit is lithe and juicy – fluttering over your palate like a moon walking Michael Jackson. The accenting flavors of wild brush, cured meat, fennel seed and fresh herbs are just delicious. The acids and tannins are in wonderful proportion and compliment each other marvelously. I said to my fiance: “This is everything you could want in a Chianti Classico.” 91 points, about $19.
So takes Bugs’ carrot buying advice and “Buy it by the Bunches”……….
Nice wine, but the prices in NH are much higher, if and when you find wines from Felsina!
If I see this one I'll let you know!
How about Fontalloro D? What does that cost?
Haven't seen it any where!
John, Dennis
Just enjoyed a bottle of 2009 Felsina Fontalloro. Great wine that is drinking well and has years ahead of it. Enjoyed it with fresh grilled eggplant and zukes from the garden and a lamb and chicory pie. Very good pairing. Felsina does make a good product.
Totally agree on Felsina. I have that wine too, sitting in the Eurocave. Still available at a great price too. I haven't tried one, but now you've got me curious. 2009 was managed much better in cooler Chianti than it was in hotter Montalcino. I'm curious to go through the 2009 Brunello and see how they fared. From the many I've already tried, they seemed quite subjected to the heat – even in the higher elevations. Thanks for weighing in.