The 2016 Castello di Ama Chianti Classico San Lorenzo is an exceptional red wine from the Tuscany region of Italy, specifically from the sub-region of Chianti Classico in Gaiole. This wine is crafted predominantly from Sangiovese grapes (80%), with additional contributions from Merlot (13%) and Malvasia Nera (7%). It boasts a 13.5% alcohol content and is sealed with a traditional cork.

The wine has garnered high praise across the board, with impressive scores from several reputable reviewers. Wine Enthusiast awarded it a remarkable 96 points, highlighting its "aromas of black- and red-skinned berry, pipe tobacco, tilled earth and a whiff of new leather." The palate is described as "elegant and taut," delivering "juicy Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and hints of French oak," and is balanced with "polished, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity" (Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast).

Decanter also gave the wine an excellent score of 95 points, noting its origins from the 25.5ha San Lorenzo vineyard, one of the first acquired by the Castello di Ama in 1972. The wine is characterized by "restrained cherry fruit allied to a chalky minerality," and described as "powerful yet elegant on the palate, layered with violet and Earl Grey flavors, followed by velvety and grainy youthful tannins" (Decanter).

Similarly, Wine & Spirits rated the wine 95 points, appreciating its "bright cherry flavors and edgy acidity," which are "smoothed out by the addition of Merlot and Malvasia Nera." The publication commends its "silky texture and finely knit flavors of tobacco leaf, toasted nuts and savory herbs," and notes a finish that is "long and elegant" (Wine & Spirits).

James Suckling and Vinous each awarded the wine 94 points. Suckling praised its "polished and refined" nature, with "chocolate, walnut and berry aromas and flavors," along with "licorice and berry undertones" (James Suckling). Antonio Galloni of Vinous described it as having a "distinctly dark, brooding profile" with "big tannins" and flavors of "black cherry, graphite, sage, mint, juniper berries and licorice" (Vinous).

Wine Spectator also rated the wine highly at 95 points, calling out its "stunning aromas of black cherry, blackberry and violet," and its "terrific harmony and length" (Wine Spectator).

Finally, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave it 95 points, appreciating its "inky and balsamic" aromas, with notes of "blackberry, cassis, rosemary essence, licorice and a touch of medicinal herb," and praised its "fiber, richness and lasting structure" (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate).

In summary, the 2016 Castello di Ama Chianti Classico San Lorenzo is a well-crafted, balanced wine with a range of complex flavors and a structure that promises excellent aging potential.