1996 Cantina di Montalcino Ch. Classico

[hotwine]

We've been enjoying one bottle after another of this Chianti Classico over the last week with different types of beef dishes, e.g. chuck roast, ground beef & pasta casserole. This wine has none of the rough edges that were once associated with Chianti in the States; this one is smooth as silk, with wonderful ripe fruit, and a deep opaque ruby color. At only $9.99, it's become our new house wine. Wine Spectator scores it at 79, but it's better than that.