FEATURES
The 2015 vintage in Chianti Classico is widely considered excellent, with some calling it a "profound" vintage. A mild winter, perfect spring, and warm summer with high temperatures in July and August were balanced by good night temperature shifts and optimal rainfall. This allowed for ideal ripeness and highlighted the features of Sangiovese, resulting in wines with excellent quality, great aromatic expression, good acidity, and very soft tannins. The wines are described as rich, sumptuous, dense, and concentrated, with massive structures and muscular tannins coated with opulent textures. 【The 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione from Mazzei's Fonterutoli estate is an opulent, dense, and powerfully ripe expression from a very fine vintage.】
Tasting notes for the Mazzei Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Vicoregio 36 Gran Selezione 2015 describe a beautiful combination of elegance, structure, and minerality. Aromas include orange peel, red fruits, a touch of licorice, dried violets, lavender, cedar, cloves, vanilla, and tobacco. The palate is full-bodied with ripe and chewy tannins, yet remains focused with mouthwatering acidity and beautiful blue fruit on the long finish. It shows ample muscle and power, but with an overall emphasis on grace and elegance, showcasing authentic Sangiovese flavors of wild cherry, forest berry, blue flower, and crushed rock.
Food pairing suggestions include savory game dishes, stews, truffles, and aged, strong-tasting cheeses. It also pairs wonderfully with homemade lasagna or braised pork chops and mushrooms, highlighting its food-friendly earthy quality.
This wine is ideal for a sophisticated dinner party, a celebratory meal, or a special occasion where a powerful yet elegant Italian red is desired. It's a wine that can be enjoyed now, but also has the structure and complexity to benefit from further aging.