Principe Strozzi Chianti DOCG 2018

“Few names in the wine world are as well recognized as Chianti,” writes Wine Enthusiast, of Tuscany’s best-known red. When it comes to such a familiar style, it pays to know where to look for the best – and you’re in great hands with this fine example. Franco Bernabei is the genius behind such iconic reds as Fontodi’s $100-a-bottle Flaccianello – and the 5-star pedigree doesn’t stop there. Franco crafted this fine red at Villa Icona, the 1,000-year-old Tuscan estate owned by the Strozzis, one of the most influential families in Italian history.

Archives reveal Strozzi family members as ancient rivals to the Medicis; friends of the Kennedys; employers of Niccolò Machiavelli, and relatives of Winston Churchill and Lisa Gherardini del Giocondo (aka the Mona Lisa!). What’s not as well known is that also they’ve also been making royally delicious wine in Tuscany for centuries.

Just outside the walled town of San Gimignano, the legendary family estate is now run by Prince Girolamo Strozzi, along with his wife and daughters. This classic from Franco is what they love to serve at family feasts. It appears our customers do the same, as it’s also been one of our top-selling Italian reds for years.

Made from ripe, hand selected Sangiovese grapes, this lovely 2018 has a 90-point score from critic James Suckling: "Good freshness and focus to this red with bright-berry and citrus character. Hints of herbs. Light body, vibrant acidity and a fruity finish with plenty of sour cherries. Solid value." It's perfectly suited for nearly every course of a traditional Italian meal – from antipasti like fresh salami and cheeses, on through to pasta and hearty roast meats.

A very smart buy at this price – hurry for your share.