2001 Isole e Olena Chianti Classico

Chianti is the most versatile and charming of wines. With its earthy character, scent of dried cherries and supple texture, it goes with just about anything. It’s the perfect picnic wine, great with sheep’s milk cheese, fresh or aged. It drinks well with grilled pork chops, with scottadito (those adorable little lamb chops), with roasted birds and even rustic bean soups.

This is not just a good but a great one, from one of Italy’s best small producers, Paolo de Marchi of Isole e Olena in the heart of Chianti Classico.

A gorgeous deep red, it’s Sangiovese with a touch of Syrah that doesn’t take away from its typicity but somehow gives the Sangiovese a little push of color and body. I could happily pop the cork on this one every night.

-- S. Irene Virbila

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Quick swirl

Region: Tuscany

Price: About $16

Style: Supple and vibrant

Food it goes with: Grilled meats, roasted birds, bean soups.

Where you find it: Available at many fine wine shops and retailers.