Chianti Riserva San Colombano 'Baroncini' 2007 DOCG

Tasted 13/07/11 with Sara. 13% ABV, ca. £9.50 UK retail (Waitrose). Initially, I was rather disappointed with this 'IWSC Bronze Medal Winner' but after 3 days breathing (sic) it really came into its own! San Colombano have a good reputation in the Tuscan middle ground and I thought at 4 years old, this bottle was about ready to try. Upon first opening and even on a second day, we found this rather closed, extremely oaky and very dry. But it eventually opened up to reveal lovely cherries and strawberries on the nose, and the tannins softened. As it is this wine is good with food but it shows that there are still long-lived 'traditional' Chianti styles made at this level. Note to self - keep for another 3 years at least! From 2015, 16/20