Mazzei Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vicoregio 36 2019

The quintessence of research on Sangiovese at Castello di Fonterutoli resides in an experimental vineyard, planted in ideal pedoclimatic conditions for Sangiovese: 36 different biotypes of Sangiovese, including 18 massal selections coming from their old vineyards. A cutting edge agronomical project creates a pure-bred Chianti Classico Gran Selezione.

96/100 Points
James Suckling
"A pretty red with black cherries, walnuts, spice and hints of dried flowers, following through to a medium to full body, chewy tannins and a flavourful finish. Hints of bitter citrus rind. Very tight for the ripeness of this vintage." 

95/100 Points
Wine Spectator
"This classy red boasts a core of ripe, juicy plum, cherry and blackberry fruit framed by a subtle touch of new oak and a mineral underpinning. Reveals refined tannins, which should come into the fold over the next 5-7 years as this integrates fully. Shows terrific balance and length, with finesse and complexity. Best from 2026 through 2045."

Tasting Notes:
A bright and surprisingly deep ruby colour. The nose has ripe and opulent aromas, with morello cherry initially to the fore, underpinned with some smoky notes, clove and coffee from wood ageing. As it opens, there are violets, roses and peony, and finally that loose tea/bergamot scent that should always be a hallmark of Sangiovese.

The palate offers balance, poise and elegance. There’s an impressive tension between the alcohol (offering an opulent background and fleshy texture) and the acidity, which brings mouth-watering precision. The alcohol offers power, but despite the ABV, it’s never intrusive. The tannins are now resolving, but there’s still the edginess of youth at this stage. Meanwhile, the fruit is in the dark cherry and berry spectrum, leavened by a little orange pith and fennel, before an exceptional length and a saline finish. A savoury, balsamic note appears if left to open in the glass for a few minutes, a sneak preview of future development.