This is a fun, easy-drinking red with a steady following. The Marchesi Antinori 2020 Chianti Classico Pèppoli marks the beginning of a new chapter for this popular bottle. Feeling that the wine had become too austere in recent years, the winemaking team opted for bigger oak barrels for less invasive oak. Fruit is selected from across various villages in the appellation. A tiny element of Merlot in this Sangiovese-based wine adds softness. These are logical choices that follow recent vintage trends, and here you get ripe cherry, crème de cassis and lightly toasted spice. It's a classic package and a good value.

Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (90)