Marchesi Frescobaldi is one of Tuscany's oldest wine dynasties, with a history stretching to the fourteenth century and nine estates across the region. Castello Nipozzano, the family's flagship property in Chianti Rufina, has served as the emblem of the subzone for generations and remains the largest producer within the appellation.

Chianti Rufina occupies the foothills of the Apennines roughly thirty kilometres northeast of Florence, at elevations of 200 to 600 metres. These cooler, hillier conditions produce wines of markedly greater structure and freshness than much of the broader Chianti zone. The 2020 vintage was warm and dry across Tuscany, delivering concentrated fruit with good natural acidity. The Riserva is predominantly Sangiovese, blended with Merlot, Colorino and Malvasia Nera, then aged for twenty-four months in French oak barriques.

Chianti Rufina has historically underperformed its classification, overshadowed by the commercial dominance of Chianti Classico. Nipozzano is the exception: multiple vintages have scored in the low to mid-nineties with major critics, and the 2011 was named Wine Enthusiast Magazine's number one wine of the year. For buyers seeking honest, age-worthy Sangiovese at a modest price from a producer with a documented track record, the Riserva Nipozzano remains a benchmark entry in the category.

Pair with roasted lamb, aged Pecorino or rabbit braised with olives and herbs. The wine has the structure to evolve for a further three to five years in the cellar, though it drinks well now with a short decant.

Deep ruby with violet highlights. The nose opens with wild cherry, dried violet and balsamic notes alongside touches of coffee and warm spice. The palate is fresh and mineral, with silky tannins, good mid-palate weight and a clean, persistent finish supported by the Rufina's characteristic acidity.

A firm and focused red with cherry, bark and hints of wood. Medium body, slightly chewy and a fresh finish. Attractive structure and balance. Drink or hold. — James Suckling