Mazzei Castello Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2022
(Tuscany, Italy) - [JS 95] [F 94] [DM 93] [VM 93] [WS 92]

About the Wine:
Castello Fonterutoli 2022 is Mazzei's 100% Sangiovese Gran Selezione from selected estate parcels surrounding the village of Fonterutoli in Castellina in Chianti. First produced in 1995, this flagship wine combines the estate's limestone terroir with a focus on elegance, structure and mineral character.

Vineyard:
The 2022 is 100% Sangiovese, drawn from six clones and eight estate massal selections. The selected parcels sit around 470 meters above sea level, with south and southwest exposures, stony Alberese and limestone soils, and vines aged 25–35 years.

Winemaking:
Hand harvesting began September 16. Fermentation took place in stainless steel vats at 26–28°C, with 15–16 days of maceration. The wine matured for 18 months in 500-liter French oak barrels, half new, followed by four months in concrete. Bottled December 2024. Alcohol: 14.66%. Production: 42,000 bottles.

Tasting Notes & Pairing:
Dark cherry, plum and violet aromas meet savory spice and a firm tannic structure. Freshness and a mineral character balance the fruit. Pair with braised game, rich stews, truffle dishes or aged cheeses.

Ratings & Reviews

95 Points - James Suckling:
"Bright, intense black cherries are enhanced by graphite and violets in a very fresh style. Silky and zesty on the medium-bodied palate, showing ripe, superprecise tannins that are tight and chewy yet balanced. Toasty finish. Drink or hold." - Aldo Fiordelli (Apr 2026)

94 Points – Falstaff:
"A brilliant ruby red with delicate highlights at the rim. On the nose, ripe fruit reminiscent of blackberry and sour cherry, followed by rosemary blossoms, cigar box, and pepper. On the palate, additional notes of marzipan; powerful and well-structured, with pronounced tannins, refreshing acidity, and a long, spicy finish." - Othmar Kiem & Simon Staffler (Oct 2026)

93 Points - Decanter Magazine:
"The Mazzei family’s flagship Gran Selezione comes from choice plots surrounding the winery in the ancient village of Fonterutoli. Tempting and confident from the get-go, the 2022 progresses from toasty top notes to sandalwood, cinnamon and mace. The palate exhibits a youthful bounce of exuberant dark cherry and plum. Wood spice is well-embedded and plays well with darker earthy nuances. Lovely juicy acidity is just what is needed to offset the dry, firm tannins. An appetising snap on the finish kicks the saliva glands into full gear, before trailing off with a note of tarragon. (Drink between 2027–2039.)" - Michaela Morris (Feb 2026)

93 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2022 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli is a gorgeous, translucent wine. Crushed flowers, cherry, mint, orange peel and cinnamon are all finely sculpted. This understated, elegant Gran Selezione is a total delight. Time in the glass releases layers of inner perfume and bright fruit. Creamy tannins wrap it all together in style. (Drink between 2027–2042.)" - Antonio Galloni (Jul 2025)

92 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Resin and vanilla aromas dominate the nose, while blackberry and black cherry flavors struggle to be heard. There’s a sense of elegance, but the new oak needs to be absorbed. Offers fine length. Though this is dense, its tannins aren’t over the top. Best from 2028 through 2042. 3,500 cases made, 350 cases imported." - Bruce Sanderson (Jul 2026)