Poggiotondo Cerro del Masso Chianti DOCG 2012: Plum red color with some translucence; cherry, raspberry nose; light sour cherry, plum, strawberry, red fruits, whiff of smoke, pinch of pepper-spice on the palate;
pushes the oak; supple tannin, good acidity; rich, soft and smooth blend of sangiovese, merlot, and syrah—the plush, fruity merlot influence is clear, as is the oak (eight months in French barriques). Made by world wine consultant Alberto Antonini at his own Tuscan estate between Florence and Pisa, this is very easy drinking modern international style rather than traditional chianti. Simple, lacks complexity, but scores well for easy drinkability, fruit, and price. $15
Second photo Poggiotondo winery
Poggiotondo Cerro del Masso website