Chianti Classico Gran Selezione

Stylistically balanced, very finesse-rich Chianti Classico Gran Selezione from a small single vineyard (vineyard no. 7) in the Castelnuovo-Berardenga area, where the temperatures are always somewhat higher than in the rest of Chianti Classico. Dark, bright ruby colour. Elegant bouquet of pure Sangiovese of red berries with a very delicate hint of tobacco. Salty on the palate, shows a lot of pressure, very clear, compact fruit, builds up with tightly woven tannins, very intense and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sensual notes of blackberries, subtly floral and spicy; juicy in the mouth, the tannins are fine-grained and well integrated, final is still somewhat characterised by wood." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Clear and inviting nose, with aromas of blackberries, blueberries and some cloves. Pithy, well-placed tannins on the palate, embedded in lots of cherry fruit, describes a wide arc, savoury and with vigour." Falstaff

"The nose is sweet and earthy, with aromas of vanilla, cherry and orange peel, as well as topsoil and crushed stones. The palate is a fruit basket of strawberries, raspberries and cherries, with a hint of orange peel. The acidity plays around soft but dense tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"This red wine is bursting with energy, offering flavours of cherry, raspberry, iron, tobacco and black pepper. It finishes long and balanced, with a range of dusty tannins girding the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Montebello Sette is magnificent. Sweet pipe tobacco, incense, leather, spices and dried flowers give this deceptively medium-bodied Gran Selezione a great aromatic presence. The time it spends in the glass helps to develop the wine's texture. There's a lot of wine here." Vinous

"A juicy and exciting red with a fresh character of red and dark berries and a hint of dried orange peel and liquorice. Medium-bodied, firm and concentrated, with chalky tannins and bright acidity. Balanced and beautifully moulded." James Suckling

"The Tolaini 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Montebello Sette shows great intensity and focus in the warm season and represents a deep immersion in Sangiovese. This elegant expression of the grape variety shows a powerful fruit profile with perfect ripeness and strong cherry flavours. This is complemented by a slightly creamy texture. Delicate mineral tones and lightly toasted spices add depth. The result is balanced and elegant." Wine Advocate

Intense ruby garnet colour. Powerful nose of savoury cherries, spicy notes, light leather, orange and plum. Equally powerful, juicy and multi-layered on the palate, with finely characterised fruit and present, fine-grained tannins. The tension of this polished wine extends into the long, elegant finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Slightly developed, quite clearly tobacco-like aroma of predominantly dark berries with somewhat roasted barrel tones, fleshy and earthy notes, hints of butter and a hint of wild mushrooms. Ripe, again slightly developed fruit, noticeably gaining juice with air, with clear, smoky and somewhat tobacco-like oak notes and lots of sandy, still somewhat drying tannins, persistent on the palate, earthy, dried-vegetable to herbaceous and undergrowth notes, a hint of butter, dark ethereal spice, certain minerality, meaty tones, very good, only slightly drying and woody finish with some milk chocolate, which also becomes firmer and juicier with time." Wein-Plus

"Refreshing bouquet of fresh stone fruit and lavender; the attack is fresh, the acidity well integrated and in balance with the powerful tannins, the finish is spicy and fruity. Reliable style." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby colour with a pronounced garnet rim. Fragrant nose, presents itself with notes of blackberry and dark cherry, very clear, some cardamom in the background. Fine-meshed, grippy tannins on the palate, unfolds beautifully over the course, firm pressure on the final, savoury, still needs some time." Falstaff

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

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

"Inviting red and black cherries, wild strawberries and woody notes; intense, balsamic and juicy freshness with grainy tannins." Decanter

"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, with aromas and flavours of cherry, plum, earth and iron as well as a hint of oak spice. A lively, firmly structured red wine with fine tannins on 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

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

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

"Still somewhat restrained berry aromas, notes of tobacco and spices; full-bodied on the palate with a perfectly balanced acid-tannin structure and plenty of character, which manifests itself in the finish in notes of blackcurrants and undergrowth." Vinum

"Intense, sparkling ruby colour with purple reflections. Multi-layered bouquet with notes of juicy cherry, pepper, coffee and ebony, exciting. Very juicy and with lush fruit on the palate, with well-integrated tannins and invigorating acidity through to the long finish." Falstaff

"Youthful, concentrated ruby red colour. Balsamic nose with a minty edge and a hint of leather. Juicy, almost racy cherry fruit on the palate, followed by a lot of grainy tannins. This wine definitely needs and deserves more time." Jancis Robinson

"Really beautiful aromas of violets, berries, sandalwood and cherries. It's medium-bodied with round and polished tannins that run the length of the wine, showing lovely finesse and concentration. Juicy on the finish. It needs two or three years to open up and show what it is made of." James Suckling

"The Mazzei 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castellina Castello Fonterutoli is made from vines closest to the winery's headquarters in Castellina. It stands somewhere between the broad, warm appeal of Castelnuovo Berardenga and the more acidic wines from Radda. This happy medium is characterised by a medium-weight texture and very bright cherry flavours that are particularly easy to detect. A hint of crushed stone frames the generous fruit in this version." Wine Advocate

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

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Sessina 2019 comes from a one-hectare parcel with a mixture of clay and rock. Cured meat, lavender, spices, dried herbs and sweet tobacco lend the distinctive bouquet a beguiling complexity. The 2019 has a medium body, remarkable structural depth and the necessary structure to age." Vinous

"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

"With aromas and flavours of strawberries, cherries, roses and minerals, this pretty red wine is firmly structured and closes tightly on the finish. Nevertheless, it is very fruity and has a very long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

The profound Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, made from 100 per cent Sangiovese from the small Campo ai Peri vineyard, exudes a pleasantly warm aroma of red berries, flowers, spices and liquorice. Intense fruitiness on the palate with a charming, fine texture, fresh acidity and a great balance of extract sweetness, acidity and tannin. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright cherry flavours, floral notes, very lively on the nose. Deep wine with striking minerality, compact and structured, fresh acidity, taut tannins, underpinned by juicy fruit sweetness, has tension and a stony character, still a little restrained." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with a slightly brightening rim. Opens with notes of blackberries and ripe plums, some liquorice and pepper. Clear on the palate with full-bodied tannins, builds for a long time, somewhat metallic on the final, dries out, still needs longer ageing." Falstaff

"Intriguing blackberry and dried flower flavours, also leather notes; the attack is full-bodied with a perfectly balanced tannin-acid structure, the finish finely chiselled with stone fruit aromas, also tobacco notes. To wild duck with polenta." Vinum

"Aromas of cherry chocolate, red plums, mild spices and hazelnuts. Medium to full-bodied, structured and velvety with crisp and delicate fruit and polished tannins. Floral and mineral on the finish." James Suckling

"The nose reveals intensely spicy aromas of old leather, balsamic and damp earth, enlivened by a hint of cherry syrup. This fruit element explodes on the palate with a cornucopia of berries, but the earthiness lingers as an undertone before a synthesising final finish. The acidity floods a valley of fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Aluigi Campo ai Peri 2019 from Le Cinciole is an exquisite wine that is immediately seductive. More than anything, I admire its purity and delineation. Sweet pipe tobacco, cedar, mint, rose petals and dried herbs are finely chiselled in this chiselled, vibrant Gran Selezione. Le Cinciole sets the standard. What a great wine this is." Vinous

"The aromas of tarragon, jasmine and camomile slowly unfold against a background of pulverised stone. The palate is youthful and shows a sinewy substance. It blends in evenly and lands with mineral vigour. Distinct accents of bitter orange underpin the firm, chiselled tannins, and there is no lack of lively acidity." Decanter

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto di Campolungo offers an interesting potpourri of ripe fruit, including blackberry, cassis and small wild strawberries, rounded off by a warm woody spice. Modern and polished on the palate, with a beautiful fruity centre, it is multi-layered, with plenty of pressure and length and balanced tannins as it progresses. The vines grow at an altitude of around 500 metres, which gives this cru a wonderful freshness and plenty of drinkability. Should gain in elegance with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright cherry aroma with liquorice and star anise. Smooth texture, firm tannins, shows good typicity with good length." Decanter

"On the nose, the fresh sweetness of cherries and strawberries is balanced by the lightly bitter astringency of orange jam and fennel. The fruit sweetens and deepens on the palate thanks to a rich, full mocha flavor, but strict, imposing tannins and acid preserve order." Wine Enthusiast

"With flavours of black cherry, plum, chocolate and iron, this rich red wine impresses across the board. Fresh and refined, with velvety tannins that support the long-lasting aftertaste, while notes of eucalyptus and tobacco enhance the complex finish." Wine Spectator

"The organically grown Lamole di Lamole 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto di Campolungo draws its fruit from a long row of vineyards stretching from the hill of Lamole towards Greve and orientated towards the sunset. This wine is creamy and medium-bodied with blackberry jam, tarry spice and earthy orris roots." Wine Advocate

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

The grapes for Ricasoli's classic 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 colour. Opens elegantly on the nose with aromas of redcurrants, orange peel and juicy cherries. Cool fruit on the palate, very elegant, well-integrated tannins, exciting and persistent final." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio 2021 smells of red Sangiovese fruit, white pepper, cedar wood, tobacco, incense and dried herbs. In the glass, the Riserva is bright and complex, with great energy, another good offering from the Ricasoli family. In fact, the 2021 is one of the best editions I have ever tasted." Vinous

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio, now labelled with the Gaiole sub-region on the back label, displays a beautiful bouquet densely packed with carefully ripened fruit. The aromas are characterised by hints of candied cherries intermingled with orris root, dried mint and spice. This generous Sangiovese finishes with lingering freshness." Wine Advocate

"A core of ripe cherries, plums and pomegranates permeates this lively, complex red wine. A balanced version with a firm grip on the finish that complements its fresh acidity. The long aftertaste recalls the fruit and mineral and Mediterranean shrub notes." Wine Spectator

"Ricasoli's flagship wine is a blend of grapes from vineyards in Gaiole on the most important soil types of the Chianti Classico: Macigno (sandstone), Galestro and Alberese. The wine shows delicate notes of dark cherries and spiced plums, which are followed in the mouth by a wonderfully vertical structure in which the juicy fruit floats and the savoury edges vibrate with energy. The fruit has a wonderful juiciness, and the tannins are supportive but play a subordinate role. Absolute class." Decanter

"Intense and balanced, perfect standard bearer of the winery. Intense and complex nose, red mulberry, hints of cloves, a touch of laurel and rhubarb. The sip has spicy tannins, a hint of floral nuances and a finish with an officinal return." Luca Gardini

"This wine is so elegant, with a finesse and sensitivity that are so fascinating. It is delicate and almost weightless, with a beautiful and energetic balance of fruit and acidity. It is medium-bodied and extremely long. Medium chewiness. It goes on and on. Dark cherries, bark and lots of flowers on the finish." James Suckling

The strictly selected grapes come from the vineyard "Il Corno" of approx. 400 m altitude with ideal southern exposure. Bright, sparkling ruby red. Well structured nose of blackberries, cassis, some cedar and shoe polish. Medium ripe, quite fresh fruit on the palate, yet supple and well balanced with all the volume. In the rest of the drink with great finesse, coolness and liveliness, the finish is long with well integrated wood, red fruitiness, with a slightly salty vein and lots of spice. A harmonious and well-proportioned top wine of the house, which can rightly bear the highest quality level Gran Selezione. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure varietal Sangiovese full of elegance and polish; complex nose with lots of fruit and nuances of sandalwood and spices; polished attack with well-structured tannins and minerality, finishes long and balanced." Vinum

"Radiant, dark ruby red with brightening rim. Elegant on the nose with precise, crisp fruit on cherry, plus violets, elder and subtle oak notes. Polished on the palate, with crisp acidity, very well integrated fine tannin, pulls through steely to the final with fine fruit notes." Falstaff

"On the nose the fruit is still a little subdued. Hints of malt. Really takes its time to open up. Bags of sour-cherry fruit on the palate. Lots of juice and fruit, but maintains elegance throughout. Tangy finish with finely ground tannins and jewel-like acidity." Jancis Robinson

"A big, concentrated red marked by black cherry, blackberry, plum and tar aromas and flavors. As this plays out on the gripping finish, the intense flavors are matched by stiff tannins. Long and fresh." Wine Spectator

"This wine absolutely stands out and is poised to evolve carefully over time. The Castello di Radda 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna il Corno is focused and bright with vibrant fruit, cassis, grilled herb and blue flower. Made with Sangiovese only, the wine is true to the grape and to the classic vintage. It remains streamlined and polished on the palate." Wine Advocate

"Vigna Il Corno (‘the horn’) is made with grapes from a plot at 400m on a calcareous clay soil. Fermentation is in 50hl stainless steel tanks, malolactic in new 5hl oak tonneaux, then 24 months in the same casks and an additional 12 months of bottle ageing. Dark, brooding, flinty style on nose, cherries and woodland notes. Refined, slick and smooth, lively with good concentration. Federico Moccia: Red fruit and violet aromas, rose floral notes. Racy, juicy palate with herbal notes, tannins well integrated, cherry and redcurrant juice. Refreshing, with great purity. Michaela Morris: Classic spiced cherry with forest cedar. Still quite sweet-wood driven, but admirable fruit purity on the palate, the oak quite integrated. Concentrated with good tannin backbone, finishes bright." Decanter

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

For many years, Istine has vinified a small and strictly selected part of the Sangiovese separately according to the origin of the vineyard in order to emphasise and bring out the specific characteristics of the site, the soil and the altitude. Since then, the best grapes from the estate's own vineyards Istine (Radda), Casanova dell'Aia (Radda) and Cavarchione (Gaiole) have been vinified separately, resulting in three now highly sought-after cru wines, of which just 3,000 bottles are sold in specialised shops and restaurants every year.

Vigna Cavarchione from the single vineyard of the same name in Gaiole is powerful, juicy and creamy, as befits a wine from this part of the appellation. Overripe red cherry fruit, mint, dried flowers and spices blend together in a sensual, inviting Chianti Classico that is characterised by its richness and suppleness. This highly distinctive and terrific masterpiece finishes with a lovely lace of sweet raspberry contrasting with the sour cherry. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Cavarchione is a polished, sensual wine. Black cherry, plum, lavender, sage, menthol and licorice build effortlessly in a Gran Selezione that captures all the textural richness that is typical of this sector in Gaiole. Ripe, finessed tannins wrap it all together." Vinous

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

For many years, Istine has vinified a small and strictly selected part of the Sangiovese separately according to the origin of the vineyard in order to emphasise and bring out the specific characteristics of the site, the soil and the altitude. Since then, the best grapes from the estate's own vineyards Istine (Radda), Casanova dell'Aia (Radda) and Cavarchione (Gaiole) have been vinified separately, resulting in three now highly sought-after cru wines, of which just 3,000 bottles are sold in specialised shops and restaurants every year.

Vigna Casanova dell'Aia is airy, weightless and graceful in flavour. Crushed flowers, sweet red berries, mint, chalk and white pepper rise from the glass in this very beautiful, incredibly nuanced Chianti Classico. Arguably the most ethereal wine in the high-class Istine collection, flavours of red berries and cherries are flanked by a fine, almost silky tannin on the palate and lead into an elegant, flowing finish with remarkable memorable potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"From the single vineyard Casanova dell'Aia, Angela Fronti produces an elegant, dancing wine with ripe cherry fruit, fine spice and plenty of minerality, matured in large oak. Fine-grained tannins, built into a juicy melting texture, with a marvellously fresh acidity, herbaceous and tart undertones, impressively long. Shows its class despite its youthfulness." Weinwisser

"Playful bouquet of red forest fruits, flowers and spices; youthful tannins, perfectly integrated acidity, fresh and elegant through to the lingering fruity finish. Classic, long-lasting and good." Vinum

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Casanova dell'Aia is a perfect example of Radda. Sage, mint, white pepper, crushed stones, mint and dried herbs give the 2021 its intense floral, spicy and mineral style. The harvestwill find a Gran Selezione endowed with plenty of tension and pure mineral drive. It has really evolved since I tasted it last year." Vinous

Badia a Passignano is always one of the many highlights in the Antinori range and is probably the estate's most refined and elegant Sangiovese. Its character is medium-bodied and supple, but with plenty of fruit intensity, which is typical of the vineyard of the same name. It skilfully strikes a balance between richness and finesse, captivating from the very first sip. Lavender, mint, blue-purple fruit and liquorice are beautifully brought out. It is a very traditional and noble expression of the Tuscan grape that is hard to resist. SUPERIORE.DE

"Starts with a lot of esprit on aromas of small red berries, also violet notes; the attack is fresh and juicy, the tannins fine-grained, the finish on notes of fresh stone fruit. Convinces with its polish." Vinum

"Bright ruby red with a violet tinge. Intense, dense nose, lots of fruit, plum, cherry and blackberry, backed by balsamic notes and fresh Mediterranean herbs. Lots of juice on the palate, harmonious, round, acidity and tannins well integrated, builds up pressure towards the end via tannin structure, long finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 is clean, polite and rather glossy. Classic red cherry and fresh garden herbs become saturated with vanilla. Supple tannins build up giving a pliant frame to sweet ripe fruit tinged with cedar and clove. Warm, soft and already approachable, this will give maximum pleasure over the next five years." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano 2020 shows an evolution towards a more refined style, even in the context of this wine, which is always a powerhouse. Blue and purple-coloured fruit, lavender, menthol, spices and liquorice are well developed. It is less powerful than in most years, and that is a good thing. The direction the wine is taking is promising." Vinous

"This wine is really velvety and open with a flattering texture that tantalises with every sip. Medium-bodied with marvellous brightness and complexity. It's so hard not to drink it now. So why wait, but it will age beautifully." James Suckling

"The nose balances fruit aromas of strawberry, cherry and raspberry with weightier, savory notes of soil, graphite and dark chocolate. The cohesive, equally balanced palate brings more berries and chocolate, creating a classic, measured, self-assured Chianti." Wine Enthusiast

"Laced with pure flavors of cherry and raspberry and shaded by a spicy oak element, this bright, balanced red is elegant yet reveals fine intensity. Light tannins line the lingering finish as iron and tobacco notes join in." Wine Spectator

Here comes the new top Gran Selezione from San Felice: intense ruby red in colour, with broad and persistent aromas on the nose. Notes of violets and blackcurrants mingle with a sweet spiciness of tobacco and liquorice. Full-bodied, supple, well-structured wine, characterised by ripe and juicy tannins that harmonise with the acidic component. SUPERIORE.DE

"A concentrated red wine with intense flavours of cherry, raspberry, pomegranate, iron and wild herbs, which is also fluid, has light notes of new oak and ends with a salty finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Gran Selezione La Pieve is a new wine in this range, replacing the Il Grigio Gran Selezione. It shows good energy and vigour, but is also still together in the bottle. Pomegranate, blood orange, spices and rose petals open up with a little persuasion. Clean mineral undertones prolong the finish. All it needs is time to develop better. It has a lot of potential." Vinous

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione La Pieve is a concentrated expression of Sangiovese with more pronounced oak tones of spice and sweet smoke. This lovely Tuscan red wine offers greater fruit richness and richness compared to the estate's Chianti Classico Borgo. This added intensity gives this wine the scope to be paired with grilled meats. The wine finishes with a sweetness that comes from both the oak and the ripeness of the fruit. This vintage offers remarkable balance and elegance." Wine Advocate

"This is a very attractive, quite elegant Chianti, polished and even on the palate. It offers notes of cherries, raspberries, orange peel, cured meat and toasted almonds. Medium to full-bodied with very fine, juicy and polished tannins." James Suckling

Grospoli comes from the vineyard of the same name on ancient terraces, cultivated in the archaic form of the Lamolian alberello. The sandy soils of the Chianti massif, the constant exposure to the wind and the pure light create the ideal conditions for a lyrical and enchanting wine.

Bright ruby red. Impressive bouquet of violets and iris overlapping with notes of small red and black berries, aromatic herbs and sweet spices. On the palate, powerful and of excellent structure, very stimulating also its freshness and spiciness, which spreads into the long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Charismatic bouquet of cherries, blossoms and leather; juicy on the palate, vivid acidity that also enlivens the final, notes of red berries on the finish that round off the performance. Shows elegance." Vinum

"Rich ruby red. In the nose first after butter biscuits, then after juicy heart cherries, reminiscent of spruce honey, in the reverberation after raspberries and dried rose petal. On the palate juicy, radiant, shows great nerve in the course, long and with pressure, currently still young, will settle down very well." Falstaff

"A thoroughly delicious Chianti Classico with aromas and flavours of plums, bark and light chocolate. Medium-bodied with round, flattering tannins and a juicy finish. It's all about softness here." James Suckling

"This is a new submission from Lamole di Lamole, located in the mountains behind Greve in Chianti. The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Grospoli is a certified organic Sangiovese that shows medium-bodied density, lovely freshness and consistency. Sourced from a single vineyard, this wine shows clarity and straightforwardness with concentrated aromas of strawberries, ripe raspberries and mineral notes." Wine Advocate

"A pure Sangiovese with notes of black raspberries, then marjoram and carob. The mouthfeel is juicy, with hints of officinal and undergrowth, dense and crisp." Luca Gardini

Vigna San Marcellino Gran Selezione is both youthfully fresh and ripe and complexly muscular. It contains a healthy dose of the deeply coloured Pugnitello grape, and on the nose liquorice, tarragon and broom mingle with lush plum and subtle roasted aromas that are highly seductive in their complexity. Deep, taut and lively on the palate, loaded with black cherry and rich, velvety tannins. The texture is silky, while subtle chalky notes and a salty minerality give it plenty of energy and lead it into a juicy, refreshing finish. Vigna San Marcellino is a convincing wine with enormous ageing potential every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby red colour. Clearly sweet blood orange, sour cherries and black pepper on the nose, followed by an aroma of dark chocolate. Juicy, ripe cherry fruit on the palate, pleasant acidity with soft tannins, elegant and long finish." Falstaff

"Lots of Sangiovese with some Pugnitello from the vineyard of the same name: engaging bouquet of black cherries and lilac, spicy notes; the lively acidity and the excellent, still youthful tannins are well balanced, the finish is long on notes of redcurrants and minerality." Vinum

"Beautiful complexity and spice, with walnuts, grilled citrus, plums and sweet spices. Full-bodied yet quite restrained, with fine, dusty tannins and a long finish. Polished." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto San Marcellino 2019 is a dark, brooding wine. Black cherry, leather, smoke, incense and tobacco contribute to an impression of seriousness and pure power. This is a particularly dark, virile edition of San Marcellino. Give it a few years to mature." Vinous

"Aromas and flavours of violets, blackcurrants and black cherries take centre stage in this supple, energetic yet elegant red wine. Vibrant and straightforward, with a firm line of tannins and great length on the iron-rich finish. It ends with fruity, mineral and spicy notes and shows solid grip." Wine Spectator

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 raspberries, 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

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

"Playful nose of small forest fruits and flowers; precise structure, acidity and tightly woven tannins well integrated, beautiful polish, persistent finish. Convinces with its elegance." Vinum

"Sour cherries, cigars, walnuts and a hint of aniseed on the nose, followed by a medium to full-bodied and flavourful palate. Beautifully framed by fine tannins. I like the spiciness on the long, delicious finish." James Suckling

"One of the highlights of a very reliable winery, comes from a careful selection of the vineyard of the same name. On the nose, nuances of blackberry, followed by cinnamon, laurel and rhubarb. The palate is savoury, with hints of fruit and spices." Luca Gardini