Felsina Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia (half-bottle) 2003

"Impressive dark ruby color. Expressive aromas of blackcurrant, plum, mint and cigar box, all lifted by a mineral element. Dense and rich, combining pinot noir-like texture and refinement with syrah-like flavors of rare meat and raspberry liqueur. This boasts a wonderfully tactile feel and a remarkably long, palate-staining finish. A great Chianti with loads of personality."
-International Wine Cellar

"Felsina's single-vineyard 2003 Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia presents more overt toasted oak notes along with darker, riper fruit in a structured expression of Chianti Classico. With some time in the glass complex notes of smoke, tobacco, licorice, mint and black cherries emerge, completing this gorgeous and intensely satisfying wine. In two separate tastings I found the Rancia more complex than the Fontalloro, most likely owing to the poorer soils of the Rancia vineyard. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019."
-Wine Advocate