This is a very straightforward Chianti. Nothing too complicated or deep; just a good table wine. Bright cherry, with soft baked earth and clove notes make for a simple but pretty nose. The mouthwatering palate is vibrant and peppery although the flavor falls off quickly on the short finish. There is no apparent oak. The acidity turns a bit sour due to a lack of concentrated fruit but for the price this is an excellent midweek dinner companion.
85% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo and Merlot
13% Alcohol
Wine Score: 83/100
Price: $8
Exploring the Philosophy of Food and Wine 
Dwight,
Awesome blog!
Would it be possible to list stores that you one might find the wines that you mention. For example the $8 chianti you just wrote about, where could I find that in the San Diego area? Trader joe’s, vons, Ralph’s?
Thanks Laura. Sometimes it is possible to identify stores that carry the wine if the stores list their inventory online. Most don’t however. The Straccali is available at Bevmo (Mission Valley as well as others). For wine shops a good source for finding wines is the website Wine-searcher.com but their listings do not include supermarkets.