2003 Villa Dievole La Vendemmia Chianti Classico Tuscany Italy. 12.5% alcohol. $19.99 at Chef Center, Paramus. Imported by Dievole USA, Manhasset, NY.
Deep red color, deep hue, intense cherry aroma with hints of earth and spice; strong single note taste of cherries, a taste you may not care for, Janet didn't, I did (she likes the lighter, more classic CC), medium to full mouth feel, medium acidity, medium finish, quite long for a Chianti Classico. 3*. Went nicely with eggplant parm on a beautiful New Jersey evening.
Winemaker's note [I'm charmed by that "Vendemmia usually starts life in a secretive way"; this wine developed beautifully in the glass after an hour of swirling]:
The estate's vintage selection, Vendemmia, is a contemporary classic - the worthiest of all chosen harvests from Dievole's single vineyards. It is both a field-blend and a cellar-cuvée - a composition into a worth greater than the sum of the estate's vineyards.
The field-blend represents up to twenty Sangiovese clones, with the Canaiolo a Raspo Rosso, the Colorino, the Malvasia Nera and with various heritage varietals. Unity in variety: individual characters supremely balanced. Terroir representation - not expressionism.
The Vendemmia usually starts life in a secretive way and then, still in her youth, she concedes velvety fruit of composite grape characters.
http://www.dievole.it/
Regards, Bob