Bibbiano Chianti Classico Riserva 2022

Bibbiano is one of the oldest family estates in Chianti Classico, run today by brothers Tommaso and Federico Marrocchesi Marzi, the fifth generation. The estate has been certified organic since 2011 and makes all of their wines from pure Sangiovese, which in this region is a statement of intent. The 2022 Riserva is aged 18 months, split between cement and oak, which keeps the wine fresh and focused without letting the barrel take over. The color is a deep, clear ruby. On the nose you get classic Chianti character: sour cherry, a little dried cranberry, licorice, and earthy undertones that ground everything nicely. On the palate it has the firm structure you expect from Sangiovese, with bright acidity and tannins that still have some grip to them. There's a savory, almost mineral quality that keeps pulling you back for another sip. 2022 was a warm and dry vintage in Tuscany, which gave the grapes good concentration without sacrificing the freshness that makes Chianti Classico worth drinking. This is a textbook example of why Sangiovese from this zone is so compelling. It's structured and serious but still very much alive.