il Molino di Grace Gran Selezione Il Margone 2012

A powerful, intense wine, the 2012 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Il Margone is also one of the best wines I have tasted from this estate in some time. Super-ripe black cherry, smoke, licorice, menthol and cloves give the wine its exuberance, while beams of supporting tannins add explosive energy throughout. The 2012 is a decidedly potent wine. I would give it a year or two in bottle to shed some of its tannin. This is very nicely done.

This structured red opens with aromas suggesting espresso, French oak, menthol, mature plum and a whiff of Asian spice. On the taut palate, hints of coffee, toast and clove accent a core of dried black cherry. Tightly wound, assertive tannins grip the finish. Give it a couple of years for the tannins to soften a little then drink up to capture the remaining fruit richness.

A modern style, with a core of cherry flavor cloaked in oak spice notes. A firm edge of tannins is yet to be resolved, and this lingers with a resinous note. Best from 2017 through 2023. 2,000 cases made.