The 2006 vintage in Chianti has already been talked about in glowing terms. It is already considered to be on par with 2004 and may well indeed join 1997 as one of the great vintages. We have two 2006 vintage reds from Castello Monsanto. The entry level Monrosso Chianti 2006 and the estate Chianti Classico 2006.
"2006 looks to be superb as it is incredibly consistent both across the various Tuscan appellations and at all levels of quality. I visited the region three times that year. In September I spent some time in Maremma, where I saw the tail end of the harvest at a number of properties, including Tua Rita, Ornellaia, Le Macchiole and Montepeloso. In November I spent a week or so in Chianti Classico, where producers were ecstatic with their young wines. So far I have tasted a large number of 2006s from tank and later from barrel that confirm the early promise of the vintage. The growing season was made in the last month or so. Warm daytime temperatures alternated with cool evenings, which extended the grapes’ hang time and gave growers the luxury and peace of mind to harvest without being rushed. These weather conditions were ideal for achieving full phenolic ripeness along with the maximum development of aromatics, acidity and structure. In general these are big, full-bodied wines loaded with super-ripe fruit, but with plenty of stuffing underneath. They will be tempting to drink young, but the best wines seem to have the potential to age gracefully for many years." Antonio Galloni Wine Advocate # 177 Jun 2008
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