The 2023 Buontalenti Chianti Classico is a beautifully refined and classically styled Tuscan red that captures the elegance and vibrancy of modern Chianti Classico. Produced under the Terre del Buontalenti project — founded to highlight traditional Tuscan farming and terroir expression — the wine is based predominantly on Sangiovese sourced from vineyards in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone. Fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in large neutral oak barrels rather than heavily toasted barriques, the wine reflects a more traditional approach focused on freshness, savoury complexity and balance. The 2023 vintage combines ripe fruit concentration with excellent acidity and aromatic precision, continuing the broader renaissance in Chianti Classico quality seen across Tuscany in recent years.
The nose reveals ripe cherry, redcurrant and raspberry layered alongside myrtle, black pepper, clove and subtle cedar spice, giving the wine remarkable aromatic lift and classic Sangiovese character. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with vibrant natural acidity, fine tannins and a beautifully balanced mineral core. Layers of sour cherry, dried herbs and savoury spice unfold with excellent freshness and precision, finishing long, lively and beautifully persistent with gentle balsamic nuance and earthy Tuscan depth. The use of large neutral oak preserves purity and terroir transparency while adding subtle structural polish and complexity.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2023 Buontalenti Chianti Classico is a superb modern Tuscan red — vibrant, savoury and beautifully refined with outstanding freshness and classic Sangiovese charm. Perfect with bistecca alla Fiorentina, tomato-based pasta, roast pork, wild mushroom dishes, charcuterie or aged pecorino. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar comfortably through 2034+.
