A solid choice: 2006 Villa Cafaggio Chianti Classico

Last weekend we had a super-fun snowed-in weekend up at Big Bear. In addition to sledding, hot-tubbing, snow angels, Dominion, jig-saw puzzles, and billiards, we also had a delicious spaghetti dinner (thanks Erin!) paired with our fourth bottle: 2006 Cafaggio Chianti Classico.

Overall, I'd say this one was very nice. Really good, though perhaps not quite amazing. It's got that spicy bite I expect from a Chianti, with a bit of a bitter puckery aftertaste - not bad, though a bit more than I prefer. It was rich, smooth, and thick, not watery, full of flavors - I'm certain a more subtle reviewer would have a field day picking out the "hints" and "essences".

Verdict: next time you need a Chianti to go with your Italian dinner, try the 2006 Cafaggio Chianti Classico - you'll be quite happy with it.