The 1970s marked a pivotal period for Tuscan wine. A surge of interest in innovative wines led to significant investment, which in turn fueled the regional industry’s rapid growth. This era saw the emergence of super Tuscan wines that relied on international grape varieties; it also saw growing recognition for Brunello di Montalcino and, with it, the potential of Tuscany's Sangiovese grape.
As premium-quality winemaking expanded across Tuscany's diverse landscapes, the region solidified its reputation as a powerhouse, offering a wide range of distinctive and exceptional wines. In recent years, Tuscan wineries have gradually elevated their reliance on Sangiovese in blends, especially in regions like Chianti Classico, where regulations have evolved to reflect higher-quality Sangiovese vines and more precise viticulture.
Our latest Tasting Highlights lineup includes Mazzei's Chianti Classico Ser Lapo Riserva 2021, which is lush with dark fruit and iron notes. Read on to get our full score and expert tasting note for this fantastic Tuscan red wine and seven others.
Tasting Highlights' wine reviews are fresh out of the tasting room, offering a sneak peek of our editors' most recent ratings—including scores and full tasting notes—to WineSpectator.com members.
Member-Only Content
Premium SubscriptionJoin today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.
Already a member? Sign In
Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!
Full access to our database of more than 425,000 wine ratings
Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines
Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations
Best value wines and winery intel
Subscribe today
