Chianti Classico Gran Selezione

The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is made from 100% Sangiovese, the grapes come from vineyards with the best sites. The Gran Selezione with its dark ruby red colour is impressive in the glass. The nose is explosive with small ripe berries, hints of rose petals, lavender and thyme. Warm and full on the palate, spicy and very authentic. This wine is reminiscent of the Greve in Chianti sub-region with cool afternoon winds blowing over wild and largely wooded areas. This is what Tuscany tastes like! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby with a fine garnet rim. Opens with notes of dried cherries and tomatoes, seems a bit restrained. On the palate much accentuated acidity, shows fresh, crisp cherry fruit, some rough tannin." Falstaff

"Approachable for its fluid texture, this red is austere in flavor, displaying cherry, almond and tobacco flavors. Firm, with fine length and a resonant, racy finish." Wine Spectator

"Very floral on the nose with lavender and lilacs, as well as black cherries. Medium-bodied with tight tannins and tangy acidity. Flavorful finish. It’s linear, driven and lightly chewy. Very typical." James Suckling

"The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is positively stellar. Cedar, rose petal, pipe tobacco, anise, blood orange and new leather give the 2017 striking aromatic presence to balance the natural richness of the year. Statuesque and resonant in the glass, the Gran Selezione is a real standout - a true winner." Vinous

Dark, bright ruby with garnet colour. Pure power of aromas, dense and complex with notes of black cherries, smoked ham, savoury herbs, tobacco, liquorice and many other nuances. Equally fascinating on the palate, firm tannins, impressive complexity and depth with noticeable potential for ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

When you hear the story of the effort that went into the Colonia vineyard, you have to wonder if the fine people of Fèlsina are absolutely crazy. It took them two years to remove the imposing rock that had forced previous generations of the Poggiali family to virtually abandon this noble site. But it is thanks to the ambitious Giovanni Poggiali that this spectacular vineyard (Vigneto Colonia) became what it is today. It has reddish-brown soils, is rich in magnesium and iron, and is thus quite different from all other Fèlsina sites.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a wine of enormous beauty and depth. Dark ruby in the glass, it smells expressively mineral and pure, with aromas of dark cherry and blackcurrant. Mineral and graphite aromas and the simply terrific focus on the Sangiovese grape make it an incomparable masterpiece. On the palate, it is extremely well-balanced and elegant with optimally integrated wood - it is immediately clear that another top wine of the house has been created that is more than a match for the Fontalloro. Fortunately for those who can taste it, there are only 3,000 bottles per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Superb bouquet with notes of raspberries, rose hips, also sandalwood; juicy on the palate, with powdery tannin, perfectly integrated acidity, shows depth and style into the jam finish. Great wine that can age for some more time." Vinum

"Sparkling, rich ruby red. Very intense and clearly marked nose, full of wild raspberries and blackberries, behind it cardamom, exciting. Substantial and dense in attack and course, opens up in lots of pithy tannin, rich, dark berry fruit, in the final emphatically earthy notes, after red beet and cocoa." Falstaff

"Lustrous ruby with orange tinges. Gorgeous nose of sour cherry and blackberry with blood-orange hints and notes of new oak all perfectly tied together. Focused and a little vibrant on the palate, elegant and succulent with long, coating tannins. Transparent finish." Jancis Robinson

"Sweet berries and dried flowers on the nose with sage and lavender. Medium-to full-bodied with chewy tannins, yet these are polished and intense. Very structured and solid. Needs cellar time. Try after 2023." James Suckling

"I prefer this wine to Fèlsina's top-shelf Fontalloro. The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is irresistibly angular and tight, opening a profound view onto what makes Sangiovese so expressive and unique, especially when planted in the right territories. The bouquet is savory and almost sanguine with iron ore, rusty nail and baked clay. But there's plenty of fruit as well, in the form of wild berry and black cherry, that adds to the dimension and dynamic freshness of the mouthfeel. Give this wine time to soften in the bottle." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is fascinating to taste next to the Rancia, as the two parcels are adjacent. Rich and substantial in the glass, Colonia is textured and ample, qualities that become increasingly apparent over time. Rugged, rocky terrain seems to amplify power, explosive verticality and acidity." Vinous

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family has for the first time vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione to reflect the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiola.

Castello di Fonterutoli comes from 11 different plots at an altitude of 420-510 m around the hamlet of Fonterutoli in Castellina in Chianti. It is quasi the "château" and at the same time the oldest cru of the winery and was first produced in 1995 as the predecessor of today's Gran Selezione. Rich colour and a clear scent of blackberries, cherries, violets and flowers, plus some nougat. This full-bodied Castello Fonterutoli impresses with its beguiling extract sweetness and polished tannin. The intense and concentrated taste enchants the senses. The long final is full of elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Engaging raspberry and floral bouquet; dynamic evolution on the palate, combining juice and polish, the acidity lively, the tannins tight, elegant finish." Vinum

"Bright, radiant ruby red. Somewhat restrained on the nose, gentle hints of orange zest and raspberries. On the palate juicy and with a red berry fruit core, shows itself elegant and drinky, currently still very young, in the finish delicate pressure with a lot of finesse, salty." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red. Brooding sweet fruit with malt notes and the scent of oak. Fantastic concentration of tangy cherry fruit on the palate. Very long, deep and smooth." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli is laced with sweet red cherry, tobacco, spices, incense, mint, dried herbs and orange peel. Medium-bodied, with plenty of aromatic drive and energy, the Castello is another fine offering in this Mazzei family range." Vinous

"Fonterutoli is located at the confluence of Castellina, Radda and Vagliagli. Since 2017, the Mazzei family has been producing three different Gran Selezione to highlight the individual communes. The Castello Fonterutoli, which comes from farms in Castellina, shows woody aromas of cedar, cinnamon and cloves. The palate is lush with cherry and plum still wrapped in oak. The tannins are polished and the graininess gives it structure. The finish shows racy acidity, bringing out notes of mint and violets." Decanter

"Packed with fresh cherry, raspberry, blackberry and violet flavors, this red starts out silky before yielding to firm, dusty tannins. Still, this offers nice tension and a lingering aftertaste of pure fruit." Wine Spectator

"The beautiful 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli comes from a special site with silly limestone soils punctuated by lots of stones. The wine is particularly balanced and bright in this vintage, with lots of cherry fruit, gravel, dusty minerals and blue flowers. The tannins are sweet and rich, contributing to an elegant, medium-bodied mouthfeel. The high altitude vineyard sites ensure the freshness of this wine." Wine Advocate

"A top Chianti Classico that smells of dark cherries, rose petals and cedar on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied and very structured with lots of tannins. Needs time to mellow. Taste after 2024." James Suckling

"A selection of about 50 plots, a blend of Sangiovese, Colorino, Malvasia Noir, for one of the great labels of Gran Selezione on the market. Notes of black mulberry, hints of clove and turmeric, nuances of ginger. On the palate, juicy-salty, persistent, with fruity-floral hints and great density-crispness." Luca Gardini

Poggio Rosso Gran Selezione from the top year 2016 is a paragon of intensity and a fullness of fruit that layers beautifully. Very beautiful interpretation of the Sangiovese grape with a dense core and lots of padding around it. Rich ruby garnet, very fine texture and structure on the palate that only fully reveals itself with the necessary time in the glass. It is tense and powerful in its youthful years, the acidity and also the well-built tannin are programmed to develop, for only in a few years will it fully reveal its full elegance and greatness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. In the nose of ripe forest fruits underlined by delicate leather spice. On the palate gripping with wide-meshed tannin, delicate dryness, but has plenty of salt, seems mineral, can and should still mature." Falstaff

"From a parcel originally planted in the 1970s with selected Sangiovese clones. Appropriately developing in its aroma profile, this doles out tobacco, bay leaf, leather, dried thyme and a suggestion of chestnut. The palate is bright with sour cherry, tart redcurrant, and a kick of tangy acidity. The tannins are compact and dense - still quite chewy, this could do with another year or so in the cellar." Decanter

"This bright red features cherry, raspberry, floral and spice aromas and flavors allied to a silky texture. Iron, sanguine and toasty accents add complexity. Firm and built to age, with a terrific finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Poggio Rosso is a powerful, bold wine that captures all the natural intensity of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, espresso, lavender and French oak are all amped up. Exuberant and generous in the glass, with superb richness, the 2016 has so much to offer. The style is extroverted - there is no doubting that - but all the elements are impeccably balanced." Vinous

"The San Felice 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Poggio Rosso shows a saturated appearance with dark garnet and ruby colors. Following that beautiful appearance in the glass, the wine opens to cassis, wild cherry, spice and toasted wood. The oak element is an important component of the mouthfeel that shows solid, mid-weight heft and long, polished tannins that would be a nice accompaniment to a filet mignon." Wine Advocate

"A beautiful, soft-textured Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, showing currant, berry and black-cherry aromas with some floral and lavender undertones. It's full-bodied, yet balanced and refined. Super quality." James Suckling

When you hear the story of the effort that went into the Colonia vineyard, you have to wonder if the fine people of Fèlsina are absolutely crazy. It took them two years to remove the imposing rock that had forced previous generations of the Poggiali family to practically abandon this noble location. But it is thanks to the ambitious Giovanni Poggiali that this spectacular vineyard (Vigneto Colonia) has become what it is today. It has reddish-brown soils, is rich in magnesium and iron and is therefore very different from all other Fèlsina vineyards.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a wine of enormous beauty and depth. Dark ruby in the glass, it smells expressively mineral and pure, with aromas of dark cherry and blackcurrant. Mineral and graphite flavours and the simply terrific focus on the Sangiovese grape make it an incomparable masterpiece. On the palate, it is extremely balanced and elegant with perfectly integrated wood - it is immediately clear that this is another top wine from the estate that is more than a match for Fontalloro. Those who are able to taste it will be lucky, as there are only 3,000 bottles per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Rusty nail, sweet raspberry and just a suggestion of oak. Supple, elegant raspberry fruit with a pinch of oak on the palate and bags of earthy-tasting, fine tannins. Very long and precise and gaining in depth on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Floral aromas, on the palate the wine shows juicy red fruit with fresh zesty acidity. The tannins are balanced giving structure and there's an understated note of oak. Elegant." Decanter

"Intense nose of wild blueberries, dried cherries, mint, roasted espresso and toffee. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a firm tannin frame. Structured and polished. Dense, toasty and compact for now." James Suckling

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a bit marked by oak today, but behind that lies a wine of striking purity, depth and freshness. Dark red-fleshed fruit, crushed rocks, white pepper, spice and blood orange are some of the notes that meld together. There's a beautiful, layered wine waiting to emerge here." Vinous

Volpaia's flagship Il Puro shows beautiful fruit, elegance and a certain austerity that are indicative of this balanced vintage. The texture of the wine is dense and voluptuous and there is dark, plummy fruit, leather and cloves that meld into a wonderful drinking flow. Oak spice, tar and campfire ash on the long and rich finish. Only 2,000 bottles exist of this profound archetype of a Sangiovese that could hardly be better. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. Opens finely fragrant in the nose, of juicy cherries, wild berries, underlaid with dried rose hips, delicately of dried tomatoes, multilayered and inviting. On the palate it is powerful and clear, opens up juicy and salty, with a great tension; long finish with a noble finish." Falstaff

"Made from a single vineyard that’s planted with 25 native Sangiovese clones rescued from former sharecroppers’ plots, this has an appealing bouquet that mixes whiffs of herbs with earthy blackberries and roasted coffee. Ripe acidity and fine-grained tannins support a palate loaded with mellow dark cherries, while nuances of toasted oak and undergrowth complicate the ample and poised finish." Decanter

"The Volpaia 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Casanova Il Puro is an organic wine in a pretty bottle with a red wax seal. The fruit is soft and round in this vintage with plenty of cherry, dried raspberry, spice and sweet leather. It boasts a full-bodied texture but ends on a silky note." Wine Advocate

"Intense notes of cedar, cocoa, violets and tobacco, combined with tangy lemon, wild strawberry and cranberry. Sharp and precise with medium to full body and tight tannins. Intense. From organically grown grapes. Needs a couple of years to integrate." James Suckling

Every year, the San Lorenzo is the result of the best grapes from the 4 classic Ama vineyards and only a few thousand bottles reach the specialised trade and upscale gastronomy. Full bouquet of graphite, mint and black cherry. On the palate, lots of character and structure, with plenty of elegance, as only the best Sangiovese bring to the glass. Striking tannins promise a fantastic ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Leafy, eucalyptus and juniper aromas and flavors lead off, with cherry and black currant close behind. Stiff tannins leave an astringent feel, but there is fruit underneath. Overall, this is very fresh and vibrant." Wine Spectator

"Oenologist Marco Pallanti chose not to make Castello di Ama's single vineyard Bellavista and La Casuccia bottlings in 2017 as he felt the excessively hot conditions gave slightly aggressive tannins. Instead, he focused on making the best possible selection from all vineyards to go into the San Lorenzo Gran Selezione. It opens with lots of dusty cherry, dry earth and sweet thyme. Well-stacked with round fruit, the palate is lifted by pressed violet nuances. Assertive but polished tannins give definition, the wood is understated and acidity bright and integrated. Besides deft balance, San Lorenzo demonstrates admirable elegance and is a great success in this challenging vintage." Decanter

"Underbrush, ripe black-skinned fruit, new leather and violet mingle with a whiff of exotic spice on this fragrant, elegantly structured red. The medium-bodied palate delivers ripe black cherry, cassis and star anise framed in polished, enveloping tannins. It shows the firm's hallmark of finesse and impeccable balance, not easy to achieve in this scorching vintage." Wine Enthusiast

"Cherries, dried flowers and slate on the nose with some fresh mushrooms. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a juicy, chewy finish. Lots of structure and freshness to this. Extremely serious as always. Tight and focused." James Suckling

"The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is a fabulous choice for readers looking for an Ama wine to drink now. Radiant and expressive, with striking depth and exceptional balance, the 2017 is pure seduction. Sweet red cherry, kirsch, rose petal, blood orange and spice fill out the layers effortlessly. This is so beautifully done." Vinous

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione for the first time in order to recognise the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiola.

Castello di Fonterutoli comes from 11 different plots at an altitude of 420-510 metres around the hamlet of Fonterutoli in Castellina in Chianti. It is both the "Château" and the oldest cru of the estate and was first produced in 1995 as the predecessor to today's Gran Selezione. Rich colour and a clear aroma of blackberries, cherries, violets and flowers, with a hint of nougat. This full-bodied Castello Fonterutoli impresses with its beguiling extract sweetness and polished tannins. The intense and concentrated flavour enchants the senses. The long final is full of elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Velvety and seductive in its style, finely woven and with polished tannins, accompanied by sweet fruit and a warm and full-bodied mouthfeel." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Fragrant and clear nose of fresh cherries, ripe raspberries, light spice, precious wood, sealing wax. With expressive fruit on the palate, juicy tannins and harmonious drinking flow, clean, precise, with a pleasant length." Falstaff

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli is a powerful, earthy wine. Black cherry, grilled herbs, menthol, liquorice, tobacco and dried herbs form the backbone of this powerful, earthy wine. With time in the glass, this wine opens up beautifully. Pretty floral accents and white pepper lift the finish." Vinous

"Lush and velvety, offering cherry, plum, earth and iron aromas and flavors, plus a hint of oak spice notes. A lively, firmly structured red, with refined tannins gracing the finish." Wine Spectator

"Wonderful bouquet of black cherries, herbs and violets, also pepper; extremely elegant in the mouth with a fine finish and tightly woven tannins, ends long on raspberry and violet notes, undergrowth and liquorice." Vinum

"The Mazzei 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli offers a rich texture, lots of dark fruit and an oak-accentuated overall approach. It finishes gently with cinnamon, baking spice and a sweet note of white chocolate." Wine Advocate

"Attractive aromas of red plums, dried cranberries, flavoured citrus peel, red spices and bark. Medium to full-bodied, broad and structured with ripe and well-integrated tannins and juicy fruit. Exciting. Shows notes of rose petals with crushed rock minerality. Long-lasting and lively finish." James Suckling

"Another great Gran Selezione project for Castello di Fonterutoli. Visciola, a hint of nettle and undergrowth, a nice iodine note on the finish, dense and compact mouthfeel, salty tannins, finish with a fruity and oily aftertaste. Persistent." Luca Gardini

Ricasoli's classic is now made from 100% Sangiovese. The grapes come from a south-facing plot at an ideal altitude of 250 to 450 metres above sea level. Castello di Brolio Gran Selezione is a wonderful wine with great richness and depth. It has an intense bouquet of small red berries, violets and spices. The flavour reveals precision, structure and freshness. The tannin and acidity are well-balanced and promise a long life and an interesting ageing period. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby red with garnet-red reflections. Intense aroma of juicy cherries, orange peel, tobacco leaves and light spices of cinnamon and vanilla. Very elegant on the palate, with beautiful fruit flavours and well-integrated tannins as well as an exciting and persistent final." Falstaff

"Deep carmine red colour. Quite a complex nose. Racy with flavours of tea leaves and good freshness. Good bite. A real, refined Chianti Classico." Jancis Robinson

"This lively red wine shows telltale Sangiovese notes of iron, red chalk and tobacco that fade into a core of cherry and raspberry. It becomes smoother and more focused on the finish, where the fruit, minerals and savoury elements come together." Wine Spectator

"Autumnal aromas of baking spices and the taste of a freshly brewed cup of coffee are balanced by a sweet cherry vanilla biscuit and a peppery note. The cherry brightens the palate, with spice sustained by herbal and stony undertones. Bright acidity plays around firm tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barone Ricasoli 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio is one of the winery's most important and successful bottles. It is full-bodied and rich with warm, vintage flavours of blackberries, juicy cherries, spices and soft earth. It is aged for 22 months in tonneaux, of which only 30% is new oak, but this is more than enough to give this full-bodied Sangiovese spicy tones, soft tannins and a rich structure." Wine Advocate

"Complex bouquet of forest fruits, black pepper and tobacco; has flesh, fullness, skilfully balanced tannins and acidity, long finish. Convinces with its charismatic style." Vinum

"Castello di Brolio is the flagship of the winery and combines Sangiovese from higher-lying vineyards near the castle, planted on the three main soil types found here: Macigno (sandstone), Galestro and Alberese. This 2020 has a balsamic bouquet that is accompanied in the mouth by a rich concentration of flavoursome, tangy red and black fruits and wonderfully silky tannins. Structured enough to age well, but soft and approachable enough to enjoy immediately, it's a great all-rounder." Decanter

"Bright and floral on the nose, with orange blossom and vibrant sliced cherry character. Medium-bodied, with ultra-fine tannins that are supple and gentle. Beautiful aftertaste of cooked peach pie and cherry. Delicious now, but even better in 2028." James Suckling

"Pure Sangiovese from three vineyards around the castle, an expression of three different soils. Black cherry on the nose, with notes of eucalyptus and cinnamon. Spicy tannins on the palate, dense, persistent with a balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

Coltassala Gran Selezione is an impeccable representative of the royal class in Chianti Classico. The immensely fragrant bouquet shows black fruits, spices and ploughed earth. All the aromas are on the dark and spicy side, but the wine always remains fresh, dense, buoyant and very linear. Shows rich volume and a strong personality and precision. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich ruby. Finely marked nose with notes of cherry, raspberry and cloves. Appealing play between juicy fruit and grippy tannin, long after cherries." Falstaff

"Lustrous ruby. Iron, tar and cherry with hints of cardamom. Generous, yet with a medium-bodied weight. Concentrated, tangy, dark fruit with polished tannins. Far from ready." Jancis Robinson

"A complex version, this red sports plum, blackberry, leather, earth, camphor and eucalyptus aromas and flavors. Though vivid and incisive with its core of fruit, dusty tannins grip the finish, where an oak spice element lingers. Be patient, here." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala is striking. Rich and ample, with tremendous depth, the 2017 shows all of the mystique that makes Sangiovese so alluring. Sweet dark cherry, dark plum, leather, licorice, menthol and tobacco build as the 2017 shows off its breadth and personality. The Coltassala has a bit more volume and oak influence than the other Volpaia wines, but it's an approach that works so well here." Vinous

"A real beauty, the 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala (made with organic fruit) shows medium-rich textural fiber with plenty of dark fruit, cherry, spice and leather. The important thing to mention here is how light and elegantly fragrant this wine remains despite the considerable heat and dryness of the growing season. In fact, all those fruit tones emerge with terrific purity and focus, backed by acidity and integrated structure, that invite an evening-long sampling with some medium-aged pecorino." Wine Advocate

"Transparent and linear with currant and cherry aromas and flavors. It's beautifully fine and bright with crushed cherries and berries and hints of strawberries. Pine needles and fresh herbs, too. Very silky tannins and a palate that shows poise and polish." James Suckling

Dievoles Gran Selezione Vigna Sessina is dark, deep and with wonderfully powerful cherry and blackberry flavours. Very defined and precise on the palate with an archetypal interpretation of the grape variety. Everything is in the right place here, the balance and clarity impresses with every sip. The finish has terrificlength and depth. This is Sangiovese in its purest form with infinite energy and expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seems a little cheesy with its "sugary" fruit and sweetness, but can please with the juicy vein and the robust tannin as well as the fine acidity and lets the wood resonate skilfully in the background." Weinwisser

"From a vineyard 420 metres above sea level: profound bouquet of red berries, lilacs and herbs; juicy on the palate, beautifully polished, supple tannins and crisp acidity, fruity and spicy finish. Successful." Vinum

"Medium ruby red with first orange-coloured reflections. A little dusty, probably from the oak, with shy, fragrant raspberry fruit underneath. With aeration, the nose becomes finer and more concentrated, with a hint of iron. The palate is elegant and delicate, with plenty of freshness." Jancis Robinson

"Sessina is a 5.5-hectare, south-facing vineyard on Macigno (sandstone soil), but with a limestone vein running through it. It shines in the fresh 2019 vintage - it is the best bottling of this wine that I have tasted. It has a lively aroma of mint, sage and a hint of chocolate. The dark plum core is ripe yet crisp, with tannins that are gently textured and grip in all the right places. Refined and elegant, but not without depth, it offers a tantalising interplay of warm Mediterranean balsamic notes with cooler forest tones. Delicious." Decanter

"Polished and pretty nose of dried flowers, cloves, mocha, dried cherries and chocolate orange. It is medium-bodied with firm tannins. Beautiful freshness and balance, with a long and elegant finish." James Suckling

"The organic Dievole 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna di Sessina is a true beauty, offering elegance and power in two ways in this vintage. There are plenty of black fruit flavours that delicately fade into crushed stone, spices and grilled herbs. The winery opts for fermentation in cement and rapid ageing in oak for about a year. These steps ensure intact primary aromas and the wine is characterised by energy and lively flavours." Wine Advocate

Sparkling ruby red colour. Complex and enveloping bouquet of rich cherry, black forest berries, violets, tobacco, tar, liquorice, incense and smoke in the background. The single-vineyard Chianti Classico San Marcellino has an excellent structure, interwoven with lively, elegant tannins, exemplary harmony and a savoury, slightly salty finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Impenetrable dark ruby. I can see the vintage with the oak having a bigger impact on the elegant fruit than is normally the case. That is not to say there isn’t plenty of concentrated black fruit contoured by savoury oak and a touch of undergrowth with just a hint of tar. Long, tangy and generous, with fine, sandpapery tannins. Elegant yet with plenty of stuffing, and ready now." Jancis Robinson

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto San Marcellino 2018 is outstanding. Silky and medium-bodied, the 2018 is a wine with more finesse than power. Dark fruit, coffee, lavender, liquorice, dried herbs and a hint of new oak adorn this exquisite, wonderfully nuanced Gran Selezione. The San Marcellino 2018 is a wine of restraint and understatement." Vinous

"Packed with red berry fruit, sweet spices and mint. Quite full and powerful on the palate and richer than most other 2018s we've tasted." Decanter

"A rich, juicy red wine with aromas and flavours of cherry, raspberry, rose, graphite and earth. Pure, with lively acidity and refined tannins to support it. Balanced and long, with a mineral note on the finish. Sangiovese and Pugnitello." Wine Spectator

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family has for the first time vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione to reflect the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiòla.

Badiòla is the historic name of a vineyard in the municipality of Radda, whose grapes have been vinified separately as Gran Selezione by the Mazzei family since the 2017 vintage. Bright ruby, a restrained but clear nose of wild berries, blue flowers, undergrowth, and hints of dark pepper. On the palate, Badiòla is masterfully balanced, almost weightless. The very well integrated tannin makes it seem supple from the first to the last glass and impresses with a long finish - its elegance is great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Homely bouquet of wild berries, spices and tobacco; harmonious on the palate, fine-grained tannins, accentuated acidity, stylish finish on notes of maraschino cherries and pepper." Vinum

"Medium ruby red with orange reflections. The most compact of the winery's three Gran Selezioni. Elegant, soft fruit that is less baroque than elegant. Long, tangy finish of raspberries and cherries with supple but long tannins." Jancis Robinson

"A juicy and ripe wine with freshness and brightness for the Radda zone in Chianti Classico. Medium-bodied. Spicy. Orange peel." James Suckling

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Fonterutoli Badiòla is a refined and elegant wine with precise aromas of cherry, blackberry, spice, earth and pressed violet. The six-hectare site consists of a mixture of slate Galestro soils and sandstone. The mineral signature is beautiful in this wine." Wine Advocate

"The great Gran Selezione of Mazzei, from three different Sangiovese clones and a mass selection. A wine of great gustatory-olfactory impact, with notes of berry jam, wild mint and gardenia, with iodine sensations. Iodine on the palate too, with a fruity-floral return and flavourful compactness." Luca Gardini

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three microlocations, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

The grapes of Colledilà come from the soils of Monte Morello. The 7.6 hectare single-vineyard plot was planted in 2002 on very rocky soils rich in calcium, clay and organic matter. These characteristics give this wine its sharpness and concentration, promising long ageing in the cellar.

Ripe, dark cherry fruit and blackberry aromas, followed by tar, liquorice and potting soil. On the palate, a fine earthiness, cherry and plum, plus finely knit and slightly sweet tannins. The dense fruit and pleasant acid wire the Sangiovese provide the necessary freshness. Masterfully composed! SUPERIORE.DE

"Finely chiselled site wine from the extensive vineyards around Castello di Brolio, with a lot of polish and yet also underpinning: convincing the balanced nose with fine fruit and floral notes, discreet mineral nuances; on the palate supple and yet with great future, the tannins finely spun and of great length. Convinces with its elegance and storability." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby with a slight garnet shimmer. Shows fine ripened fruit on the nose, of plum, blackberry and dark cherry, slightly earthy notes in the background, of black truffle. Firm pressure on the palate, unfolds with dense tannin, smooth at the core, after wild raspberries, good tension." Falstaff

"Focused cherry, plum, menthol and spice flavors permeate this dense red, which is vibrant and firmly structured, with the menthol and spice notes echoing on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"This is sensational, with ultra fine tannins that melt into the wine. Such intense and beautiful fruit with cherries, peaches and lightly candied cherries. Some citrus, too. Very soft and creamy with wonderful polish. Beautiful center palate and a lovely finish. A song in the bottle. A little tight now. Hard to wait, but give it two or three years to open." James Suckling

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà is the most complex of the single-vineyard Gran Seleziones, as it often is. A wine of notable aromatic breadth and dimension, the Colledilà is wonderfully nuanced from start to finish. Crushed rocks, sage, blood orange and smoke infuse the 2018 with notable character. Once again, the Colledilà is quite distinctive." Vinous

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family has for the first time vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione to reflect the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiòla.

Vicoregio 36 is the successor to the ambitious Mix 36 and, since 2017, a true Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. As a result of 50 years of research, 36 biotypes of the Sangiovese grape were planted on a sunny plateau near Castelnuova Berardenga, from which this extremely interesting and independent wine was created a few years ago. The overall impression is very balanced and straightforward with hints of red cherries, spices, dried blueberries and tobacco. It is the warmest and most balanced of the three Gran Selezione wines. Its intensity, richness of colour and precise fruit instantly captivate the Sangiovese lover. SUPERIORE.DE

"Raspberry-scented seducer with floral and herbal notes; flattering on the palate, silky tannin, embedded in fine acidity, ends long and fresh. Pleases with its elegance and no-frills style. Among the best cuts of Viennese beef cuisine." Vinum

"Bright ruby red. In the nose initially marked by rich noble wood, then after blood orange and fresh raspberries, pink roses in the finish. Compact and with clear fruit on the palate, shows itself polished and radiant, pithy, minimal afterdrying in the final." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red with orange reflections. Brooding and with the faintest suggestion of gingerbread and sweet oak. In this youthful state, the palate is similar to that of the Castello di Fonterutoli Gran Selezione of the same vintage, but this is slightly richer and with firmer, if polished, tannins. Enormous length. Monumental and far from finished." Jancis Robinson

"Mazzei's expression of the Vagliagli commune comes from a vineyard planted with 36 different Sangiovese biotypes, the result of 50 years of research. At an altitude of 350 metres, it is the lowest of the winery's three Gran Selezione sites and also the most expansive and supple. It leads with mocha, dried cherry and balsam wood and wears its oak well. The purity of the red berries shows on the palate with toasty flavours. This wine is full yet gracefully structured, with appetisingly integrated acidity." Decanter

"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 five to seven years as this integrates fully. Shows terrific balance and length, with finesse and complexity." Wine Spectator

"This is the third vintage in which this wine has the Gran Selezione designation. The fruit comes from an experimental vineyard at an altitude of 350 metres with compact clay soils (with some stones for loosening), good aeration and a dominant southern exposure. The property is 12.5 hectares and was acquired in 1997. Following the graceful 2018 vintage, the Mazzei 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Fonterutoli Vicoregio 36 shows medium-bodied concentration and sweet tannins with plenty of dark fruit, spice, scrub and wild mint." Wine Advocate

"A very straightforward and fine Chianti Classico with crisp cherry fruit and a hint of minerals. Medium body. Crisp and lively finish. Closed and dense on the mid palate." James Suckling

Poggio Rosso Gran Selezione has an enormous abundance of fruit that is beautifully layered. A very beautiful interpretation of the Sangiovese grape with a dense core and plenty of padding around it. Rich ruby-garnet colour, very fine texture and structure on the palate, which only reveals itself fully with the necessary time in the glass. It is full of tension and power in its youth, the acidity and the well-built tannins are programmed for development, as it will only develop its full elegance and greatness in a few years. SUPERIORE.DE

Coltassala Gran Selezione is an impeccable representative of the royal class in Chianti Classico. The immensely fragrant bouquet shows black fruits, spices and ploughed earth. All the aromas are on the dark and spicy side, but the wine always remains fresh, dense, buoyant and very linear. Shows rich volume and a strong personality and precision. SUPERIORE.DE

"As always at this young stage, the wood notes accompany the fine and bright fruit; the strengths lie in the inner tension, the elegance, the solid style of the fine tannin and the eternal length. Confirms the upward trend of this great classic, which has been organically farmed since 2000." Weinwisser

"Charismatic attack of cherries and black pepper, delicately tinged with liquorice notes; the tannins youthful, the acidity perfectly integrated, plenty of richness and power through to the long complex final." Vinum

"The organic Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala 2019 is 95% Sangiovese with a tiny 5% Mammolo. The production is 9,000 bottles in this vintage. The wine shows medium fruit weight with a nice blend of creamy black fruits, Christmas spices and crushed stone or granite. The wine is both fruity and contemporary." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red. In the nose initially fine mint, some fruit tea, also fine liquorice, in the aftertaste of ripe blackberries and cardamom. On the palate with clear, radiant fruit, tense powerful tannin, also on the palate with ripe berry fruit, in the final with delicate earthy-spicy nuances, grippy." Falstaff

"Aromas of black cherries and citrus fruits with some graphite and smoke. Medium-bodied with firm, juicy tannins that are still chewy now but will soften with age. Racy and long on the finish. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

"Lovely cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavours take centre stage in this graceful red wine. Lively and elegant, with well-integrated tannins and a long, supple, mineral finish. In about 5 to 6 years, this wine will be truly charming." Wine Spectator

"An exceptional Gran Selezione from Volpaia, sourced from the winery's historic vines and clones. On the nose, red raspberry, hints of rhubarb and juniper, then balsamic eucalyptus. Salty-sweet on the palate, with a fruity finish and balsamic notes, very long lasting." Luca Gardini

As a result of extensive soil analyses, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. In addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione range now includes three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are planted 100% with Sangiovese. In close correspondence with their terroir, they differ in structure and flavour and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

Cru Roncicone comes from soils with maritime deposits. It is a 10.1 hectare plot planted between 1998 and 2000 with a density of 6,000 plants per hectare. The soils are rich in marine fossils with sand at the top and thicker clay beneath the topsoil. Our impression of this wine is that it is the most immediate and softly structured.

Deep dark, fruity and smoky bouquet. Dark, violet-coloured fruit on the palate, paired with notes of forest floor, tobacco and a beautiful spiciness. The volume is full and deep, the tannins very accessible even at a young age and the finish is flanked by a well-structured acidity framework, which will also ensure very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Roncicone 2019 shows the more ethereal side of Sangiovese in this vintage. Sweet red cherries, mint, crushed stones, orange peel and rose water give it a remarkable aromatic brilliance. The Roncicone captivates with its medium-bodied, translucent personality and offers plenty of intensity." Vinous

"This spicy red wine presents itself with an explosion of bright cherry fruit, along with notes of strawberries, redcurrants, eucalyptus and tobacco. It shows an underlying minerality and dusty tannins that are present on the finish. All components are present." Wine Spectator

"Earthy forest scents accompany hedgerow berries and violet tones, with a clear petrichor note. The fine tannins allow the intensity of the juicy red and black fruits to shine through. It has a beautiful freshness with an almost mentholated character that, combined with the dense and tangy finish, gives it a sense of verticality." Decanter

"The aromas and structure of this single-vineyard Chianti Classico are something special this year. The flavours of orange peel, meat and cherries are lively and vibrant. It has a medium body with firm, chewy tannins that are dusty and fine-grained. Structured and robust with a granite-like presence. Try it after 2025, but it will impress you." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio Roncicone 2019 reflects soils rich in shells and marine fossils. These conditions provide sharpness and focus with beautiful minerality, both salty and chalky. At first glance, this Sangiovese is textbook, slender and elegant. The bouquet is refined and multi-layered with wild cherry, mint, blue flowers and blood orange. There is also a hint of rust, and the mouthfeel is polished and very fine. The tannins melt away. Francesco Ricasoli assures me that he and his team have learnt to "work the grapes". I would definitely say that. The results are stunning." Wine Advocate

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione for the first time in order to recognise the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiòla.

Badiòla is the historic name of a vineyard in the municipality of Radda, whose grapes have been vinified separately by the Mazzei family as a Gran Selezione since the 2017 vintage. Bright ruby-garnet colour, a restrained yet clear nose of wild berries, blue flowers, undergrowth and hints of dark pepper. On the palate, Badiòla is masterfully balanced, almost weightless. The very well-integrated tannins make it smooth from the first to the last glass and it impresses with its long finish - its elegance is magnificent! SUPERIORE.DE

"Already radiates finesse on the nose and confirms this not only with plenty of fruit, but also with subtle minerality, elegance and appears light-footed and multi-layered in comparison. In the final, the fine race, depth and tannin bite complete the terrificimpression." Weinwisser

"Bright, sparkling ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Nose with elegant, earthy tones, beetroot, ripe cherry, wild berry fruit and black tea. On the palate with racy, fresh acidity and a red berry centre, plus a fine saltiness." Falstaff

"Spicy and chocolaty with ripe red and dark berries, rose petals and bark undertones. Medium to full-bodied with firm, racy tannins and crisp acidity. Lively fruit character and a linear finish." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badiòla is a complex, wonderfully nuanced wine. White pepper, chalk, orange peel and orange zest are woven into a core of vibrant red cherry fruit. This nuanced, earthy Radda Gran Selezione from vineyards 550 metres above sea level has a lot to offer in 2020." Vinous

"Seductive blackberry nose, also lilac and balsamic notes; balanced on the palate, the tannins and acidity in perfect balance, finishes crisp on notes of fresh fruit, also pepper and maquis. Can still age. Convinces with its elegant, Burgundy-like style." Vinum

"This expressive red shows aromas and flavours of cherries, raspberries and flowers, supported by a lively acidity and refined tannins. Intense and resonant with a mineral aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Oenological jewel from the Romanesque Pieve di Badiòla. Three Sangiovese clones, three from the mass selection, nose with notes of jammy berries, wild mint and gardenia, with iodine sensations. Salty and iodised on the palate, with a fruity-floral finish and great crispness." Luca Gardini

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione for the first time in order to recognise the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiòla.

As a result of 50 years of research, 36 biotypes of the Sangiovese grape were planted on a sunny plateau near Castelnuova Berardenga, from which this extremely interesting and unique wine was created a few years ago. The overall impression is very balanced and straightforward with hints of red cherries, spices, dried blueberries and tobacco. It is the warmest and most balanced of the three Gran Selezione wines. Its intensity, richness of colour and precise fruit immediately captivate Sangiovese lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Archetypal for a Chianti Classico, marrying fine fruit with depth and robust, earthy-spicy grip and remaining compact and full-bodied until the long finish." Weinwisser

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Dark berry and spicy on the nose, with rich precious wood, milk chocolate, fine, resinous tones and a hint of smoke and coconut. Juicy on the palate, with compact tannins and a savoury core, the final is grippy and powerful, the wood has integrated well since the last tasting, powerful finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vicoregio 36 is a soft, fruity wine that can be drunk now or over the next few years. Crushed flowers, sweet red cherry fruit, candy and sweet floral notes permeate this uncomplicated Gran Selezione. The Vicoregio comes from a relatively cool site in Castelnuovo Berardenga and is the only wine in this range to be aged in oak." Vinous

"Very attractive combination of cherries and lightly toasted oak. A hint of cappuccino. Turns into flowers. Full-bodied with creamy tannins and light-coloured fruit. Polished tannins with a hint of vanilla at the end. Needs time to develop. Try it after 2026." James Suckling

"The Mazzei 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Fonterutoli Vicoregio 36 is made from the fruit of an experimental vineyard planted with 36 Sangiovese biotypes. It is characterised by a very linear and concentrated style. This site is particularly rocky with clay-limestone Alberese soils. The ripe fruit of the warm vintage and the lush oak spice give the wine a full-bodied finish. Finally, beautiful mineral notes lend vigour and elegance to the bouquet." Wine Advocate

"This racy red wine is characterised by its lively acidity, which highlights the flavours of cherry, raspberry and iron. Hints of wild herbs, oak spice and tobacco add detail as the wine develops into a long, complex finish that has excellent balance and energy." Wine Spectator

"Exquisite aromas of small fruits, dried roses, spices and tobacco; intriguing structure with sufficient density, but also a great deal of finesse, the tightly woven tannins and acidity in harmony, ends with a long finish. Impeccable Gran Selezione from 36 different Sangiovese biotypes." Vinum

"Marasche on the nose, touches of clementine zest and fresh sage, with peony lashes. Mouthfeel with iodized tannins, a comeback of plum." Luca Gardini