Classically expressed and inviting, the wine shows dark cherry, smoked game, clove, and nutmeg aromas on the nose. The palate delivers succulent fruit flavours with spicy nuances, splendidly framed by fine texture and grainy tannins, finishing sturdy and finely dry. A blend of 80% Sangiovese & 20% Merlot.

For those not aware, and I counted myself among them, the name ‘Spigallo’, is apparently an Italian pun, being a combination of ‘spiga’, a sheaf of wheat, and ‘gallo’, a rooster. Both are represented in the winery’s logo – perhaps ‘pun’ translates badly from Italian. This is a good value and thoroughly enjoyable Chianti. It is 80% Sangiovese, with the remainder, Merlot. Maturation is in large older oak for half a year. The colour is a deep red/garnet. On the nose, we have notes of florals, red fruits, spices, milk chocolate, warm earth, cherries, dried herbs and a touch of mushrooms. A juicy style with an earthy finish, there are hints of tomato bush also evident. The wine is of medium length, finishing with furry tannins. For enjoying over the next two to four years.