Wired For Wine:  “Much happiness comes to men who have the fortune to be born where wine is good”, wrote Leonardo da Vinci of his hometown, where generations of the Comparini Bardzky family has lovingly crafted wines since 1,000AD.  Immerse yourselves in the classic flavors of the region in this Faltognano Riserva Chianti Montalbano with full glasses and a heaping platter of Tuscan chicken liver-onion crostini, one of our favorites.  The first thing we noticed about this wine is its purity; there aren't a lot of complex bells and whistles clanging, and therein lies its beauty.  It is elegant and refined, with fully developed tannins, so Sangiovese at its finest.  The medium body, dark fruit and perfect nuance of oak in this Riserva Chianti is made for braised chicken, lamb, beef, game and substantial pasta dishes.  If you're craving lamb, roast a couple of racks and serve them alongside a candied garlic puree and mint salsa verde.  They are the perfect combination of sweet and savory to go with the lovely char on the lamb.  If pasta is on the menu, we suggest a pappardelle with braised rabbit ragu.  It's our serious winter comfort food...   For the earthy side of this absolutely delicious Faltognano there is nothing better than grilled steak seasoned with rosemary and sea salt, next to arugala salad tossed in a garlic vinaigrette. Come assolutamente deliziose!  You won't want to end the meal with just anything, so see if you are able to get your hands on an Italian Pecorino delle Balze Volteranne cheese.  It is aged in oak barrels for 2 months and delivers a memorable green olive flavor and a long finish.  You do have another bottle, don't you?

Size:  750ml
Varietal:  80% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo, 5% Malvasia Nera
Alcohol:  13.5%
Ageing:   24 months in casks
Region:  Vinci, Tuscany, Italy