Rose, mature red berry and wild herb aromas mingle with a balsamic whiff of eucalyptus. The delicious, polished palate boasts a restrained elegance, delivering juicy Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, star anise and white pepper alongside refined tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced and lends just enough tension. Drink through 2023.

The 2017 Haiku is a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Succulent dark cherry, plum, mocha, spice, new leather and licorice all flesh out in a racy, forward Tuscan red that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring. Time in bottle should bring out more aromatic nuance and overall complexity.

Features a core of cherry, surrounded by graphite, wild rosemary, tobacco and leather accents. Broad yet sinewy, with lightly astringent tannins gripping the finish. Think salumi or grilled steak. Sangiovese and Merlot. Drink now through 2030. 7,100 cases made, 900 cases imported.

The 2017 Chianti Classico Ama is a terrific wine that opens to a mid-weight feel but produces an enormously expressive bouquet. The hot vintage has shaped warm tones of tilled earth and dark fruit but it is all carefully weighed and in context. The wine is open, accessible and generous. You can't go wrong with this entry-level offering from Castello di Ama, especially with a lentil or spelt soup.