A few Chiantis are included in today’s reviews—all reminders that this is not a red wine meant for sipping on its own. And while Dr. Hannibal Lecter famously observed, “I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti,” I don’t recommend this food pairing if you’re pouring any of the wines I’ve reviewed below. And by that I mean liver in general. (If the former is on your menu list, you need to unfollow me.)

But seriously, the high acidity, gripping tannins and earthy nature of the spicy red-berry-rich Chianti Classico, in particular, craves a food pairing. The ideal matches are meaty Italian dishes with red sauces, such as lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, pepperoni pizza, chicken parmesan and bread with cured meats.

Drinkandpair.com explains the harmonic match of lasagna as follows: “The high acidity of Chianti Classic cuts through the dense layers of protein, fat and carbohydrates, allowing each of the delicious flavours to taste fresh and vibrant. That’s because acidity keeps our taste receptors clean of the fats and carbohydrates that can clog them up.”

And what’s the difference between Chianti and Chianti Classico, you ask? All Chianti, which is composed of at least 70% Sangiovese, is made in Tuscany. Chianti Classico has its own distinct appellation within the region and must be aged in oak by at least 12 months, while containing at least 80% Sangiovese. Chianti Classico Riserva, meanwhile, must be aged at least 24 months prior to bottling.

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII Chianti Classico 2018 — Tuscany, Italy ($18.95)
The nose is a touch closed to begin and benefits from a good decanting. The oak prevalence soon reveals itself, with some resulting leather, tobacco and vanilla extract adding to earthy aromas of intense dark red fruit and cassis. The tannins initially grab but then release a touch quick. 88

Castelgreve Chianti Classico Riserva 2018 — Tuscany, Italy (21.95)
A brooding, complex assortment of dark red fruit with a spicy dark—almost baking—chocolate and cinnamon laced in. Medium-plus tannins predictably follow in the glass, with the two years of Slavonian Oak aging added some depth to the rich black plum/raspberry/cherry fruit mix.  88+

Sensi 2020 Chianti dal Campo — Tuscany, Italy (%11.75)
Wonderful value here. The earthy, dry dark fruit you’d expect (black cherry, raspberry, blackberry), but with smoother tannins than anticipated. The finish is medium length at most, but there’s a whole lot packed in here for the price. Good pizza wine! (This one was very close to making my Best Value List this year.) 87+