As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that the 2019 vintage is indeed a good year for Chianti Classico. The wines from this vintage possess a unique combination of vivacity and richness, making them a delightful choice for wine enthusiasts.
To understand why the 2019s are considered good, it is essential to explore the characteristics of the previous vintages. The 2021s, known for their liveliness and freshness, bring a vibrant energy to the wines. On the other hand, the 2020s are known for their richness and depth, adding a layer of complexity to the 2019s.
One aspect that sets the 2019 vintage apart is the few years of bottle aging. This aging process has allowed the wines to achieve a remarkable harmony, balancing the various elements and flavors. It is during this time that the wines develop and evolve, reaching a peak of maturity and balance.
When it comes to Chianti Classico, it is important to understand the quality tiers of the wines. The region has a classification system that divides the wines into different categories based on their quality and aging requirements. The tiers include Annata, Riserva, and Gran Selezione.
Annata wines are the entry-level Chianti Classico wines and are typically released in the year following the harvest. These wines are meant to be enjoyed in their youth and showcase the characteristics of the vintage. The 2019 Annata wines are vibrant and lively, with a good balance of fruitiness and acidity.
Riserva wines are aged for a longer period, usually a minimum of two years, with at least three months in bottle. These wines offer more complexity and depth, with additional aging enhancing their structure and flavors. The 2019 Riserva wines, with their harmony and richness, are a testament to the quality of the vintage.
Lastly, the Gran Selezione wines are the pinnacle of Chianti Classico. These wines come from carefully selected grapes and undergo longer aging, with a minimum of 30 months, including three months in bottle. The 2019 Gran Selezione wines are exceptional, showcasing the true potential of the vintage with their depth, complexity, and elegance.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to taste several 2019 Chianti Classico wines, and they have consistently impressed me. The wines have a beautiful balance of fruitiness, acidity, and tannins. They exhibit vibrant red fruit flavors, such as cherries and raspberries, with hints of spices and earthiness.
One particular bottle that stands out in my memory is a 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva. The wine had a remarkable depth and complexity, with layers of flavors unfolding as it opened up in the glass. The tannins were well-integrated, providing a smooth and velvety texture. This wine truly showcased the potential of the 2019 vintage.
The 2019 vintage is undoubtedly a good year for Chianti Classico. The combination of vivacity from the 2021s and richness from the 2020s, along with the added harmony from bottle aging, has resulted in wines that are truly remarkable. Whether you prefer the youthful vibrancy of the Annata wines or the complexity of the Riserva and Gran Selezione wines, the 2019s offer something for every wine lover.