Castello di Ama Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo 2018

Castello di Ama Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo 2018 is a refined, estate-grown expression from one of Tuscany’s most respected producers. Sourced exclusively from the estate’s own vineyards, this Gran Selezione sits at the very top of the Chianti Classico quality pyramid, offering both authenticity of origin and impressive depth of character. Named after the picturesque San Lorenzo valley, where 18th‑century villas Pianigiani and Ricucci overlook the vines, it captures the elegance and structure that have made Castello di Ama a modern benchmark in the region.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2018 San Lorenzo shows a deep, vibrant ruby red with garnet nuances at the rim. The nose opens with pure red and black cherries, wild berries and violets, followed by layers of tobacco leaf, cedar, dried herbs, and a subtle earthy minerality. With air, notes of sweet spice, cocoa, and a hint of balsamic complexity emerge. On the palate, this Gran Selezione is both polished and energetic, combining Sangiovese’s firm backbone with the supple richness contributed by Merlot and the aromatic lift of Malvasia Nera. Expect a juicy core of cherry and plum fruit, framed by fine-grained tannins and a lively acidity that keeps everything precise and fresh. Hints of leather, graphite, and savory spice carry into a long, elegant finish. Still youthful, the 2018 has excellent aging potential; it can be enjoyed now with a decant, but will continue to develop greater complexity over the next 10–15 years.

Production
The grapes for San Lorenzo 2018 come from Castello di Ama’s own hillside vineyards in the heart of Chianti Classico, where galestro and alberese-rich soils, combined with altitude and strong diurnal shifts, produce Sangiovese of notable finesse and tension. Old vines and parcels over ten years of age are carefully tended, with yields kept low to ensure concentration and purity of fruit. Harvest is carried out by hand, plot by plot, to capture optimal ripeness for each variety—Sangiovese, Merlot and Malvasia Nera. In keeping with Gran Selezione regulations, the wine is made solely from estate-grown fruit and released only after a minimum of 30 months’ aging from harvest. Vinification typically involves temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel or traditional vessels, followed by maturation in carefully selected oak, allowing the wine to gain structure, complexity, and harmony without overwhelming its terroir-driven character.

Food & Serving
This Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is a natural partner for classic Tuscan cuisine: think bistecca alla fiorentina, slow-braised beef or lamb, wild boar ragù with pappardelle, or roasted game birds. It also shines with aged Pecorino, mushroom dishes, truffle-inflected risottos, and rich tomato-based pasta sauces. Serve at 16–18°C (60–65°F) to highlight its aromatic complexity and freshness. Decanting for 1–2 hours before serving is recommended in its youth to soften the tannins and allow the full spectrum of aromas and flavors to unfold.

Producer
Castello di Ama is one of the leading estates in Chianti Classico, located in the Gaiole area, long considered a historic cradle of the appellation. Since the late 20th century, the winery has been at the forefront of elevating Chianti Classico’s reputation, combining meticulous vineyard work with a modern yet terroir-focused approach in the cellar. Estate-grown fruit, careful parcel selection, and an unwavering commitment to quality have made Castello di Ama a reference point for Gran Selezione wines. Beyond its critical acclaim and numerous high ratings from international critics, the estate is also known for its integration of contemporary art and architecture, underscoring its role as both a cultural and viticultural landmark in Tuscany.

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