Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badiola 2020

Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badiola 2020 is a refined expression of high-altitude Sangiovese from the historic hills of Radda in Chianti. Drawn exclusively from the tiny Romanesque parish of Badiòla, this Gran Selezione showcases the purity, tension and elegance that cooler sites can bring to Chianti Classico. As the highest quality tier of the denomination, it represents both the modern ambition and deep-rooted tradition of one of Tuscany’s most respected families.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, Badiola 2020 shows a luminous, medium-deep ruby red with youthful purple reflections at the rim. The nose is precise and finely etched, opening with wild cherries, red currants and raspberries, followed by notes of violets, dried roses, blood orange zest and a hint of flint and warm terracotta. Subtle layers of sweet spices, cedar, tobacco leaf and fresh herbs (thyme, sage) emerge with air, underlining its complexity. On the palate, this wine is vibrant and vertical, driven by crisp red fruit and a spine of vivid acidity typical of Radda’s cooler microclimate. Silky yet finely grained tannins provide structure without heaviness, allowing flavors of sour cherry, pomegranate, cranberry, licorice and savory minerality to unfold slowly. The finish is long, clean and mouthwatering, with lingering notes of citrus peel, graphite and dried flowers. Badiola 2020 is already very enjoyable, but it has the balance, freshness and tannic frame to evolve beautifully for 10–15 years in a good cellar, gaining further complexity and tertiary nuances.

Production
The Badiola vineyards sit among the highest in the Chianti Classico area, in the commune of Radda in Chianti, where altitude and a notably fresh climate give Sangiovese its distinctive tension and aromatic lift. The soils are predominantly galestro and alberese – stony, well-drained marl and limestone that naturally limit yields and accentuate minerality. Grapes are carefully hand-harvested at optimal ripeness to preserve acidity and aromatic precision, then sorted to ensure only the best berries go into this Gran Selezione. Fermentation typically takes place in temperature-controlled vats, with gentle extraction to favor finesse over sheer power, followed by maturation in quality oak (often a mix of barriques and larger casks) to refine the tannins and add subtle spice without obscuring the wine’s high-altitude freshness and terroir-driven character.

Food & Serving
Badiola 2020 is an excellent partner for classic Tuscan cuisine and refined, savory dishes. Think bistecca alla fiorentina, roasted lamb with herbs, braised beef, duck breast, or game birds, as well as rich pasta dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar ragù) and mushroom risotto. Aged pecorino, Parmigiano Reggiano and other firm, mature cheeses also highlight its structure and acidity. Serve at around 16–18°C (60–64°F); if the wine is young, decant for 45–60 minutes to allow the bouquet to fully open and the tannins to soften, especially if pairing with more delicate dishes.

Producer
Castello di Fonterutoli is the historic Chianti Classico estate of the Mazzei family, whose roots in Tuscan viticulture stretch back to the 15th century. Situated near Castellina in Chianti, the estate has long been considered a reference point for the denomination, combining centuries-old tradition with thoughtful innovation. The Mazzei family were among the pioneers in elevating Chianti Classico’s quality, investing heavily in vineyard research, clonal selection of Sangiovese and precise parcel-based vinification. Their Gran Selezione wines, including Badiola, highlight specific, high-potential crus and have helped redefine the image of Chianti Classico as a source of serious, ageworthy wines that stand confidently alongside the great reds of Italy and beyond.