The 2019 Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is a red wine crafted from Sangiovese grapes and hails from the renowned Chianti region in Tuscany, Italy. Produced by the Mazzei family at Castello di Fonterutoli, this wine represents a distinguished selection from the Castellina area, one of three communes highlighted by the Mazzei family since 2017.
Decanter awarded this wine a score of 92, noting its "wood-driven aromas of cedar, cinnamon, and clove." The reviewer described it as an "exuberant mouthful with cherry and plum still wrapped up in oak," with polished tannins and a grainy texture. The review also mentioned a "spike of racy acidity toward the finish," introducing mint and violet notes. This wine is suggested for consumption between 2023 and 2033.
Vinous offered a score of 91, highlighting the wine's aromatic complexity. The tasting notes included "sweet red cherry, tobacco, spice, incense, mint, dried herbs, and orange peel." The review praised the wine’s medium body, aromatic lift, and energy, positioning it as a fine offering from the Mazzei family. The suggested drinking window is from 2022 to 2031.
James Suckling gave an excellent review with a score of 95, describing it as a "top Chianti Classico" with "crushed dark cherries, rose petals, and hints of cedar" on both the nose and palate. He emphasized its medium-to-full body and structured tannins, suggesting it needs time to soften and recommending consumption after 2024.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate rated the wine at 94+, commending its balance and brightness. The review highlighted "lots of cherry fruit definition, crushed stone, dusty mineral, and blue flower." The tannins were described as "sweet and rich," contributing to an elegant, medium-bodied mouthfeel. The high-elevation vineyards were noted for guaranteeing freshness.
Wine Spectator provided a score of 93, describing the wine as "packed with fresh cherry, raspberry, blackberry, and violet flavors." The review mentioned that it starts out silky but transitions to firm, dusty tannins, offering "nice tension and a lingering aftertaste of pure fruit." The best consumption period is suggested to be between 2025 and 2042.
In summary, the 2019 Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is a well-regarded wine with notable complexity and structure, suitable for aging and highly praised by wine critics.