This juicy and youthful red has everything you could ask for in a fine Chianti. It's bright, zesty, and lively. It's made by one of our favorite Chianti producers from the same Sangiovese grape of Chianti grown in the hills of Tuscany. In fact, everything about the 2007 Sangiovese from Perazzeta says Chianti except the label. That's because some of the grapes were grown outside the official boundaries of the Chianti district. The fact that the '07 Perazzeta "Sara" Sangiovese is not officially Chianti is actually good news because its price is lower than actual Chiantis of comparable quality.

The bouquet is forward and impressive with the berry and cherry fruit scents of the Sangiovese grape backed by hints of earth, violets, cinnamon and black pepper. The Chianti-like flavors are lively and bright--bursting with juicy cherry and berry fruit underscored by nuances of cinnamon-spice, earth, herbs and black pepper. This is a luscious and attractive wine that is perfect for summer sipping.