Barone Ricasoli Chianti Classico Castello Brolio Riserva 2016

93 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Brolio is a terrific wine that lives up to our expectations of a Riserva, while maintaining that playful informality that you don't get in the estate's more contemplative Gran Selezione. Indeed, the Riserva category of Chianti Classico has been largely overlooked ever since Gran Selezione came onto the scene some seven years ago, thus knocking Riserva off the top of the quality pyramid. This wine reminds you why you should take a closer look at Riserva. The bright aromas of dark cherry, spice and tilled earth are fresh and cheerful and are exactly why we are attracted to Chianti Classico in the first place. The blend here is 80% Sangiovese, 15% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in new and used tonneaux for 18 months. The mouthfeel is slender and fresh, making this a perfect wine for slices of steak, or tagliata, with porcini mushrooms. Drink: 2019-2028. (Sep 2019)"

93 points James Suckling: "This is a fantastic Chianti Classico Riserva that displays blackcurrants, dark plums, redder plums, tulips and cedar. Medium to full body, some really restrained and attractive tannins and a tangy finish. Drink now. (11/7/19)"

93 points Bruce Sanderson (Wine Spectator): "[$30 list] An expression of fresh cherry greets the nose in this taut red, yet this remains austere on the palate, with fruit, iron, earth and oak spice flavors bound up in a grip of tannins. Everything is in the right place, but this needs time. Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2022 through 2042. (12/31/19)"

93 points Decanter: "An articulate and energetic style with delicious roasted fruit and spicy oak drawing you in. Finely crafted, velvety and refined. Drinking Window: 2020-2028. (Jan 2020)"

90 points Falstaff Guide: "On the nose medium expression, slightly floral, raspberry. On the palate crisp acidity, juicy, shows a rustic side, slightly grippy tannin on the finish. (2/13/20)"