Was 2019 a good year for Chianti Classico?

Answered by Andrew Fritz

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I must say that the 2019 vintage of Chianti Classico has its ups and downs. I would say it was a decent year, but not exceptional. Let's delve into the details.

Yields in the 2019 vintage were on the high side. This means that the vineyards produced a larger quantity of grapes than usual. While this may sound like a positive thing, it can actually have an impact on the quality of the . When there are too many grapes on the vine, the nutrients and energy are spread thin, resulting in less concentrated flavors and potentially dilute wines. However, this is not always the case, as some winemakers are skilled at managing high yields and still producing wines of great quality.

One aspect where the 2019 Chianti Classicos seem to be lacking is in the content. Alcohols are on the lower side in this vintage. This can be a trade-off, as lower alcohol wines can be more elegant and easier to drink, but they may lack the depth and richness that higher alcohol wines can offer. It ultimately depends on personal preference, but it is worth noting that the 2019 vintage may not appeal to those seeking big, bold wines.

Tannins, on the other hand, present a mixed bag in the 2019 Chianti Classicos. Some wines show fully ripe tannins, providing a nice structure and grip to the wine. However, there are instances where the tannins are not fully ripe, resulting in a slightly astringent or green character. This can detract from the overall enjoyment of the wine, as unripe tannins can make the wine feel harsh and unbalanced. It is important to note that this is not a universal characteristic of all 2019 Chianti Classicos, but rather a variable that can be found in some wines from this vintage.

In terms of weight and aromatic intensity, the 2019 Chianti Classicos generally fall into the mid-weight category. They are not overly heavy or full-bodied, but rather display a balanced and approachable character. This can be seen as both a positive and a negative, depending on personal preference. Some wine enthusiasts may appreciate the restraint and finesse of these wines, while others may be seeking more power and intensity.

The 2019 Chianti Classico vintage is a mixed bag. While there are some positives, such as good aromatic intensity and mid-weight profiles, there are also areas where it falls short, such as lower alcohol content and the presence of unripe tannins in some wines. It is important to note that these characteristics are not definitive of all wines from this vintage, as there can be variations within different producers and vineyards. Ultimately, the quality of the wine will depend on the individual producer's skills and choices in the winemaking process.

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and experience a wide range of wines from different vintages. While the 2019 Chianti Classicos may not be the most outstanding vintage, they still offer a lot of enjoyment and can pair well with a variety of dishes. It is always fascinating to explore the nuances of each vintage and see how the weather and growing conditions can shape the final product.

The 2019 Chianti Classico vintage has its strengths and weaknesses. It may not be the most exceptional year, but it still offers wines with good aromatic intensity and a mid-weight profile. It is important to taste wines from different producers and vineyards to fully appreciate the diversity within this vintage. Whether you prefer wines with lower alcohol content and elegance or seek more power and intensity, there is likely a 2019 Chianti Classico that will suit your palate.