"To say I was blown away by the Istine wines this year would be a massive understatement. These new releases are positively stellar. Proprietor Angela Fronti crafts some of the most distinctive Chianti Classicos readers will come across. The single-vineyard wines are each incredibly unique. Istine emerges from a parcel between Radda and Castellina, while Casanova dell'Aia is near Radda and Cavarchione is in Gaiole. The Riserva Le Vigne is a blend of all three. Aging is done in cask. These are among the most thrilling wines I tasted this year. 

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Vigna Casanova dell'Aia is a rich, powerful wine. It is also a bit less put together than the other wines in the range at this stage. Succulent black cherry, plum, licorice, tobacco, spice and new leather all build as this decidedly potent, virile wine shows everything it has. All of the Istine 2018s need more time, none more so than the Casanova dell'Aia. Drinking window: 2024 - 2038" 94+ points - Antonio Galloni (Vinous, August 2020)