2018 Chianti Classico San Lorenzo Gran Selezione
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Tasting notes
The 2018 vintage was great in Tuscany – and especially so at Castello di Ama. The estate’s Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo is their top-value, single-vineyard cuvée. The wine has a lovely, deep, ruby red colour with an intense, fruity nose of red cherry, spices, strawberry and some floral notes. It is juicy and succulent on the palate with a silky, supple texture and a graceful, elegant body. The ripe red fruit is intriguing, rich and long-lasting, complemented by sweet tobacco and leather notes. The tannins are firm but delicate. The finish shows a lively freshness with darker red fruit, wet earth, wood and mineral hints. This has harmony, length and balance, as always.
Critic scores
Average Score
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The Castello di Ama 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo is one of the most distinctive wines in the ample portfolio offered by this estate. I always seem to find a balsamic note in the San Lorenzo Sangiovese (a blend of some of the property's best fruit, with a touch of Merlot and Malvasia Nera thrown in), and it definitely comes through in this vintage with grilled rosemary and even a touch of black olive. This wine is truly Mediterranean in spirit and it boasts an all-Italian identity. Its supple, mid-weight texture is amplified by elegant fruit and spice. And the wine's fresh acidity makes it the ideal pairing partner with your favorite Tuscan pasta or pici recipes.
The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is a deep, potent wine. Black cherry, gravel, smoke, licorice, chocolate, spice infuse the San Lorenzo with tons of dark Sangiovese character. A heady, muscular wine, the 2019 exudes tremendous richness. I would give it a few years. The 2018 is a wine of aromatic intrigue and intensity.
A tight, polished red with a very beautiful texture of firm, polished yet integrated tannins. Full-bodied with plenty of subtle dark-berry and chocolate character. Hints of walnuts, too. Flavorful finish. A little tight at the end, but already really delicious. Serious young Gran Selezione. Drink or hold.
About the producer
Castello di Ama is one of the pre-eminent estates in Chianti Classico. Situated in the southern-most district of the appellation, the estate has only been making wine since the late 1970s but has since built a reputation as one of the region’s best.