Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti Classico 2018 

This sangiovese (tipped with 5% each of colorino and malvasia) comes from Castellina in Chianti, in the lower western part of the Chianti Classico appellation. The vines are rooted in albarese clay/loam soils, at 300-550m. After fermentation in stainless, this rested one year in French oak (225 and 500L0, 40% new. Fragrant black cherries, dark raspberries leap from the glass and follow on the medium+ palate, wrapped with ample, soft, well-integrated tannins. There's a fine, smoked / dusty minerality woven throughout this wine, lingering and luring on the finish. Quite polished and drinking very well now, but certainly with time ahead.

A well proportioned, elegant body, dark berry, fresh spice flavors, intense, smooth taste. Great ability to pair: dark sauce pasta, BBQ, boiled meats with spicy sauces, aged cold cuts. 

The Mazzei Chianti Classico Fonterutoli shows a classic bouquet with tart berry fruit, forest floor, bitter almond, blue flower, cola and grilled herb. The wine presents a classic, cool-vintage profile that suits Sangiovese very nicely as it pulls out the bright, red berry energy that is inherent to this variety. The acidity and bright fruit presented here would make a great companion to chicken roast with potatoes.