Chianti DOCG – Melini ou Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG – Frescobaldi ?

Chianti DOCG – MeliniChianti DOCG, Sangiovese as the sole grape, Borghi d'Elsa area named, consistent red fruit and floral profile. Broad appellation, no sub-zone cited.

Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG –…Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG, Rufina zone in Tuscany, Sangiovese only; the profile of red fruit, violet and balsamic notes is consistent with the appellation.

Chianti DOCG – MeliniNo distinction or guide mentioned; the producer Melini is named as a historical player, with no award listed.

Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG –…James Suckling 93 for 2020 and 92 for 2021; Frescobaldi is named, but no very high-level distinction is mentioned.

Chianti DOCG – MeliniAt €10.99 for the 1.5 L magnum, i.e. €5.50 per 75 cl, the price falls below the standard rate for a Chianti DOCG; crossed-out price €13.88.

Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG –…At €22.55 versus a crossed-out price of €24.47, this Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG 2020 rated 93 by James Suckling sits at a price consistent with its appellation.

Chianti DOCG – MeliniPairings with red meats, aged cheeses, pasta with ragù, detailed aromatic profile and serving at 16-18°C: a good number of uses.

Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG –…Precise pairings with red meats, game and aged cheeses; serving temperature of 16-18 °C and detailed profile (red fruit, spices, balsamic notes) facilitate the match.

Chianti DOCG – MeliniMelini named and located in Borghi d'Elsa; fermentation in steel tanks and ageing of at least 12 months specified, with no mention of organic or manual harvesting.

Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG –…Frescobaldi is named; steel fermentation, long maceration, aging of at least 24 months and three months of aging in glass are specified.