The 2006 Chianti Classico is a great introduction to the house style, and also happens to be an excellent value in this vintage as well. It is a supple, focused wine with plenty of red fruit supported by a firm, yet well-integrated tannic spine. In 2006 the wine has an additional level of plumpness that makes it especially appealing. The Chianti Classico is 95% Sangioveto and 5% Canaiolo that was aged in two year-old French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. This is a fine set of new releases from Castellare and proprietor Paolo Panerai. The estate is located in Castellina, right in the heart of Chianti Classico. The colorful birds that are featured on the labels are native species that have returned to an ecosystem that has been restored through the elimination of pesticides and herbicides in the vineyards. Panerai prefers to call Sangiovese by its historical name, Sangioveto, a convention I have followed in these notes. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

A straightfoward red, with dried cherry and floral character. Medium-bodied, with light tannins and a clean, fresh finish. Minerally. Drink now. 8,000 cases made. -JS

This enjoyable Chianti Classico offers a sweet-smelling nose that recalls Christmas spice, cinnamon, pipe tobacco and blackberry. It has a friendly, sunny disposition and good concentration of flavors and aromas. Blue flowers, cherry and almonds put in appearances on the finish.——M.L.(9/1/2008)—— 87