2018 Castello di Ama “San Lorenzo” Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Tuscany, Italy

ABOUT THIS WINE

Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is named after the picturesque San Lorenzo valley viewed from the estates eighteenth-century Villa Pianigiani and Villa Ricucci. This wine is produced from the finest grapes grown in the historic vineyards Bellavista, Casuccia, San Lorenzo and Montebuoni. 80% Sangiovese, 13% Merlot, 7% Malvasia Nera; Alcohol: 13.5%; Vines planted in 1974, 1978, 1996; hand harvested from 8/29 10/15/2018; lots vinified separately using only ambient yeasts; fermented at controlled temperatures 30 33 C in stainless steel tanks; malolactic fermentation then blending in oak; aged in 22% new oak barriques for 12 months; bottled in June 2020.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Ama is an old, fortified village situated near Radda and Gaiole in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. The Castello or Castle of Ama is surrounded by the beautiful Tuscan countryside and is near some of the original, noble families of the Chianti region. The meticulously cultivated vineyards are privy to optimal exposures and consist of fertile soils. Ama is a modern estate comprising 500 acres of land, 200 of which are vineyards. These vineyards are divided into five important parcels; San Lorenzo, Bellavista, La Casuccia, Bertinga and Montebuoni. In the 1970s, four families formed a partnership and purchased the property with the goal of producing world-class wines. Castello Di Ama is unique, employing its best Sangiovese to produce Chianti Classico, unlike many Tuscan producers who have chosen to blend their best Sangiovese into Vini da Tavola or Super Tuscans. In addition to the acclaimed Chianti Classico produced in each vintage, the crus of Bellavista and La Casuccia are produced only in outstanding vintages and in extremely limited quantity. These wines in their concentration, harmony and overall elegance represent the best expression of Sangiovese in Tuscany.