Castello di Meleto has been welcoming those arriving to Gaiole in Chianti since 1256. The wines of Castello di Meleto are characterized by their authentic expression of the Chianti Classico area. Elegant and structured, they combine freshness, imparted by the altitudes and the thermal excursions of the hills of Gaiole in Chianti, and minerality, imparted by rocky soils.

This magnificent hilltop castle in Gaiole dates back to 1256. It has accommodation, cooking classes, and of course wine tastings. The colour is full ruby, with faint purple tints, the bouquet laden with dried herbs, sousbois and clean leather. It’s a typically savoury Chianti Classico, with abundant assertive tannins drying the finish and leaving a long grippy aftertaste. A complex, serious and detailed red which is big on sapidity, and beautifully balanced, the aftertaste more-ish and appetising. Drink: 2023 to 2035; Price: $80.00; Alcohol: 13.5%; Rating: 95 Points ★★★★★ & Awarded: Top Rank; Huon Hooke; The Real Review

This rich red is signalled by earth and tar aromas, with flavors of black cherry, plum and iron standing up to a dense matrix of tannins. Shows breadth and power, with an aftertaste of dark fruit, earth and soy. Best from 2024 through 2037. 5,400 cases made, 1,000 cases imported. Rating: 93 Points; Bruce Sanderson; Wine Spectator

Orange peel, grilled herbs, raspberries, cloves and sun-dried tomatoes on the nose. Some salted-almond notes, too. Medium-bodied with firm, lightly dusty tannins. Stony at the end. Better after 2023. Rating: 92 Points; James Suckling

Made with 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot aged in equal parts French and Slovenian oak and boasts sleek new packaging. This delicate wine shows an easy and transparent quality of fruit with fresh cherry, cassis, earth and spice. This Riserva also shows elegant floral tones over a mid-weight close. Drink date: 2022-2028. Rating: 92 Points; Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Wooden cases of 12