Antinori - Pèppoli : Chianti Classico 2022

This wine is like that adoring, pesky little sibling who always manages to offer levity and good cheer. The Marchesi Antinori 2022 Chianti Classico Pèppoli offers an evergreen flavor profile that puts Sangiovese under an almost Pinot Noir–like spotlight. The wine is bright and pretty, with Rainier cherry, orange peel, violet and earth. If you really want to push those buttons, you could interpret Pèppoli as the equivalent of a Langhe Nebbiolo or a good Valpolicella.

Balanced and moderately long, this bright, fruity red offers cherry, strawberry and light earth flavors in a charming, approachable profile. Sangiovese, Merlot and Syrah. Drink now through 2028. 18,500 cases imported.

Located just a few kilometres from the Tenuta Tignanello estate, Pèppoli has been owned by the Antinori family since 1985. This Chianti Classico is a blend of Sangiovese with complementary varieties, vinified separately in stainless steel then aged in large Slavonian oak barrels, with a small percentage in barriques and stainless steel vats. From a hot and dry year, it combines ripe, dark berries with fresh and dried herb aromas. The fruit is concentrated and plump, although the wood sticks out a bit at this stage. Acidity is good, coming in as menthol freshness on the cheeks. Considering production is just shy of one million bottles, quality is impressive.

This is a wonderful value, with crunchy cherry and dark fruit, as well as orange peel and a hint of flint. Medium to light body, crisp acidity and brightness on the palate. Real Tuscan character. Drink and enjoy.

The 2022 Chianti Classico Pèppoli, the entry-level offering from Antinori, is a fine introduction to the year that shows just how compelling this vintage can be. Bright, floral and beautifully lifted, the 2022 is all class. The understated, refreshing style is so compelling.

The 2022 Chianti Classico Peppoli is a youthful ruby magenta and is highly expressive, with lively aromas of grenadine, tangerine, fresh flowers, and fresh oregano. This carries seamlessly to the palate, keeping all the buoyant vibrancy and fruit through a well-balanced and polished finish. It has fine tannins and a flourish of toasted smoky cedar spice, with notes of dusty earth and a touch of iron-rich gamey feel. Clean and balanced, this is an excellent value to drink 2025–2032.