Tenuta di Arceno 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Strada al Sasso

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Tenuta di Arceno 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Strada al Sasso 14.5% $55
This wine's nose immediately absorbs my attention. It is hedonistic but not over the top. It is beautifully balanced, but it commands enough weight and girth to be head-turning for a Chianti Classico. Clearly, that is why it is a Gran Selezione, the highest of the Chianti Classico DOCG levels. (Previously, this single vineyard micro cru was labeled as their Riserva wine before the Gran Selezione designation came into play with the 2010 vintage.) Interestingly, this is a relatively young vineyard, being about 18 years old for the 2016 vintage. 

Stuffed with forest berry flavors, this elegant though full-bodied wine showcases sophisticated touches of mocha flavors that blend suavely into the concentrated fruit. There is a sweet, juicy core of fruit that ranges from black to red with a tinge of dried red currant tartness. Impeccably balanced on the palate with unusually delicate and balanced oak treatment for a Gran Selezione, this - impressively - can be enjoyed now. There is a wee hint of alcoholic heat on the back palate that becomes more evident as the wine warms on the table, but it is not at all off-putting. This should evolve in a glorious fashion in the cellar for 15 years to come. 
Drink: 2020-35