Il Palagio di Panzano, Le Bambole, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, 2013

This certified organic estate is located in the Conca d’Oro (Golden Bowl) of Panzano, in the Chianti Classico appellation. Today it’s run by Monica Piccini, whose father and grandfather both grew grapes here. Vineyards are planted at an altitude of around 500m on galestro soil, and benefit from a unique microclimate. Almost all of the vines are Sangiovese, with 1ha of Merlot planted by Piccini’s father. Le Bambole takes its name from the Vigna delle Bambole vineyard, the source of the fruit used in this Gran Selezione. Andrea Briccarello: Clean yet rustic, with leather and cigar box aromas. On the palate the wine is very polished and super-sleek. Lots of red forest fruits flow into an intense body. Great personality here, and a long aftertaste. Susan Hulme MW: Dark fruit combines with tar, polish and black olive on the nose. A very richly compact and concentrated palate with refined, oak-coated tannins. A super-smart, sophisticated style that's slick, round, satisfying and deeply concentrated. Andrew Jefford: Understated yet very intricate and charming; sweet, perfumed and serene. The elements are brought together with magnificent subtlety and harmony. That grace is amply evident on the palate too, demonstrating seamless harmony and an accumulation of nuance with textural finesse. It has sap, freshness and richness, and an assured sense of being Tuscan.