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Five first-rate Chianti producers.

CASTELLO DI AMA
An extremely consistent Chianti house that also produces perhaps the most famous Merlot in Chianti, Vigna l'Apparita. Its 1997 Chianti is outstanding.

FATTORIA DI FELSINA
Another always-reliable name, this winery, run by acclaimed winemaker Franco Bernabei, has won accolades since the Eighties. It produces textbook Chiantis and a superb Super-Tuscan, the Sangiovese-based Fontalloro.

CASTELLO DI FONTERUTOLI
In recent years, this estate, which is owned by the highly regarded Mazzei family, has become one of Chianti Classico's front-runners, with a reputation for soft, immediately pleasurable wines.

TENUTA FONTODI
The Mannetti family runs this classic Chianti house, which has also begun producing an interesting Syrah and a particularly promising Pinot Noir (Pinot Nero).

QUERCIABELLA
This estate makes not only very good Chianti Classico but also that most elusive of Tuscan aspirations, an excellent white wine.