Scoring a pleasant 16 points on the 20-point Dionysian scale, and costing under $15 with an ideal 13% alcohol, the 2014 Fattoria di Faltognano Chianti was a smart buy.

Notes of ripe tomato and herbs pushed forward over red fruits and the fruits lingered on the tongue for a medium length aftertaste. It was balanced and designed to marry with a meal.

Served with an orange tomato sauce over pasta with with a large complex salad. The wine enhanced all the food flavors.

It’s a DOCG wine, and remember, you don’t need a black rooster on every Chianti you drink. Look for value; you drink what’s in the bottle and not any famous label. In Vino Veritas.