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2020 Kirkland Signature Chianti Classico Riserva

2020 Kirkland Signature Chianti Classico Riserva

We always look forward to tasting the latest vintage of the Kirkland Chianti Classico, but remain a little reserved as it’s historically not been one of our preferred wines in the Kirkland portfolio.

Last year the price jumped up $1 to $8.99, and at least it didn’t go any higher with this vintage. Still can’t believe Suckling is going 92 points on these wines (2019). We just don’t see it.

Kirkland Signature Chianti Classico Riserva

If you look over our reviews of previous vintages, we keep this pretty average at around 87 points.

2013: 88 points

2014: 88 points

2015: 88 points

2016: 87 points

2017: 86 points

2018: 87 points

2019: 87 points

This new vintage was a little rough on the initial pour. Just thin and disjointed. I will say it improved significantly with some air (1 hour plus), but it started at such a low point that even significant improvement couldn’t get it to a place where we wanted.

In the glass this wine is a pale ruby; there’s subtle red fruit on the nose; flavors are mostly cherry and raspberry; good acidity, quick finish. Overall, just light, thin and not super interesting.

Kirkland Signature Chianti Classico Riserva

It’s a drinkable Chianti, perfect for an easy pizza night that won’t break the bank. But for just a few bucks more you can do a lot better in a Chianti and other Italian reds.

CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 85 points

Costco item number: 944010

Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA (Kennesaw, GA)

Alc. 13.5%

Les Kangas

Wednesday 3rd of May 2023

I thought this release is much better than the prior two years and give it a solid 89. Drank in Reidel Chianti/Zinfandel glass.

Gerry

Sunday 26th of March 2023

I recently bought a bottle of Kirkland Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Brought it home and put it on the wine rack. Noticed a few days later it was had a very slight drip as there was a small stain on the floor.

Curious if anyone else has had this problem with any of the Costco wines. I took it back and they gave me a refund.

David A

Monday 27th of February 2023

I just ignore all James Suckling ratings. Most wine website filters allow you to include only the ones that agree with your palette. So glad I didn't buy a bottle of this the other day as I was intrigued while reading the label. Also, I wouldn't hesitate to return any bottle if it claimed to be 92 points and was less than decent.

Susan Kanning

Friday 3rd of March 2023

I didn’t think Costco accepted returned wine or any other libations.

Ian

Monday 27th of February 2023

I think I can still find the 2019 version only an hour away. I'll be picking up more of that version if they still have it.

Mark

Saturday 25th of February 2023

Chiantis are always light as with most old world reds, save French Syrah. The 2016 vintage was a joy, the 2017 was not quite austere and just opened the 2020. I did not find it very tight. As expected there is little up front fruit with some on the back end. I think this Chianti would hold up to any $25 bottle and would age well. Dollar for dollar most of the Kirkland imports are fabulous. Recently I found a 2010 Kirkland Rioja in my wine frig, it was stunning.

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