Lornano Le Macchie Chianti Classico 2015

Wine supremo Franco Bernabei is the man to see if you’re looking for top-shelf Italian wines. Renowned up and down Italy’s ‘boot’ for his winemaking prowess (and nicknamed ‘Mr. Sangiovese’ by the Italian press), his creations can fetch $100-plus a bottle. With good reason too, as you’ll taste with this elegant Chianti – awarded an impressive 97 points by top Italian wine critic, Luca Maroni, and a gold medal from France’s prestigious Gilbert & Gaillard wine guide, AND 92 points from Italian expert, James Suckling.

Franco worked his magic at Fattoria di Lornano’s beautifully restored farmhouse in the premium Chianti Classico region (home of Chianti’s finest vineyard sites). He collaborated closely with the Taddei family – who’ve farmed their land since 1904 – to make the most of the blockbuster 2015 vintage.

His pick from their property? Their famed Le Macchie vineyard, with its beautifully ripened Sangiovese. Franco aged this classic Tuscan red in fine oak barrels for 12 months, which lends hints of peppery wood to the vibrant Morello cherry and violet core.

The fresh, berry fruit intensity and gentle spice of this wine will pair well with a variety of foods. The Taddeis recommend enjoying Le Macchie with spicy pasta dishes, roasted game, or Pecorino cheese. Whatever you decide to serve, get your order in early. We have very limited cases, and this fantastic-value Chianti Classico won’t last long.