Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castellina DOCG 2021

Tenuta di Lilliano | Tuscany
Tenuta di Lilliano | Loc. Lilliano 8 | IT 53011 Castellina in Chianti

29272521 · 0,75 l · 48,00 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

There are wines that define an appellation. And there are wines that show where an appellation can go. The Gran Selezione from Lilliano belongs to the second category. When the Chianti Classico producers created the new top of the quality pyramid in 2010, there was a great deal of scepticism: is there really a need for another category above the Riserva? Lilliano answered this question with deeds rather than words. While other estates defined their Gran Selezione with an international use of wood and concentrated opulence, Lilliano remained true to its line: tradition, terroir, typicity. The Gran Selezione comes exclusively from the two best single vineyards of the Tenuta – piagge and Casina, both situated at an altitude of around 300 metres, both characterised by the calcareous Alberese soils that make Castellina in Chianti one of the most mineral terroirs in the entire appellation. Piagge is south-facing, fully exposed to the sun, and produces Sangiovese of concentration and vigour. Casina, on the other hand, exposed to the east-south-east, produces Colorino and Sangiovese of elegance and aromatic finesse. Together they produce a cuvée of 90% Sangiovese and 5% each of Colorino and Merlot – an assemblage that seeks perfection within the rules rather than innovation.

Deep ruby red with garnet-coloured reflections. The bouquet is of beguiling complexity: citrus notes – notes of bergamot and cedar – a lush, fruity centre of ripe cherries, wild berries and spices. Violets and dried roses, so typical of Sangiovese from Castellina, mingle with hints of undergrowth, tobacco and a touch of graphite. The palate reveals what the Gambero Rosso rightly rewarded with the "Tre Bicchieri": flavour, density, length and rhythm in perfect balance. The wine is powerful but never heavy, structured but never harsh. The tannins are fine and silky, the acidity lively and carries the wine through a long, complex final that constantly reveals new facets. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive raspberry and violet nose, flanked by undergrowth and spices; juicy on the palate, beautifully polished, elegant berry finish." Vinum

"A deep and dark wine with aromas of black cherries, violets and liquorice Juicy on the palate, with supple fruit, firm, chalky tannins and a medium body. Good finish." James Suckling