2003 Castello di Ama L'Apparita Toscana Rosso (in magnum)

Marco Pallanti makes what is arguably the single most elegant Chianti Classico out there, with more than a passing resemblance to Pinot Noir in some vintages. The two single-vineyard bottlings, Bellavista and La Casuccia, are also top-notch. La Casuccia, 80% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot, is from clay and limestone soil on high-altitude plots ranging from 1,575 to 1,725 feet, while Bellavista, from a similar height, also includes Malvasia Nera and comes from rockier soil. L'Apparita is Italy's most refined Merlot and particularly outstanding in weak vintages.

Marco Pallanti makes what is arguably the single most elegant Chianti Classico out there, with more than a passing resemblance to Pinot Noir in some vintages. The two single-vineyard bottlings, Bellavista and La Casuccia, are also top-notch. La Casuccia, 80% Sangiovese and 20% Mer... more