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 –…Rufina subzone named as DOCG, Sangiovese at 90% with Malvasia Nera and Colorino, galestro soil described: a clear Tuscan anchor, but 10% Merlot and Cabernet.

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

Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG –…Tre Bicchieri, 4 grappoli Bibenda, 3 stelle Veronelli, plus scores of 90 to 92 from Suckling, Parker and Wine Spectator: high recognition.

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 –…€15.37 for a Chianti Rufina Riserva awarded Tre Bicchieri, with a crossed-out price of €18.60: clearly below the usual price for this tier.

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 –…Pairs with red meats, game and aged cheeses, red fruit and spice profile, served at 16-18 °C: easy to match this riserva.

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 named in Rufina, steel fermentation, wood aging and minimum 24 months specified; neither hand harvesting nor organic certification indicated.