Fonterutoli is located 5 km south of Castellina in Chianti (Siena), on the hills facing the Val d’Elsa, in the heart of the Chianti Classico. Owned by the Mazzei family since 1435, it still retains its original form, that of a tranquil country village: a cluster of houses, the church of San Miniato and the villa, built at the end of the 1500s where the medieval castle once stood. Today, the estate comprises 117 hectares of vineyard, largely planted with Sangiovese with some Merlot, Colorino, Malvasia Nera and Cabernet Sauvignon vines also planted. The cellar at Fonterutoli, designed by architect, Agnesi Mazzei, is one of the most impressive in the region, and has a minimal impact on the environment.
Vineyard location: blend of 50 different parcels from the best single vineyards,
Selection: 36 clones of Sangiovese, 120 individual vinifications
Altitude: 220 – 550 metres above sea level
Soil: Alberese and Galestro (limestone)
Age of vines: 10 – 25 years
Training system: Spur cordon-training and Guyot
No. of vines per hectare: 4,500 – 7,500
Harvest: Hand picked from 1st October
Fermentation temperature: 26 – 28° C
Period of maceration: 15 – 18 days
Ageing: 20 months in small French oak barrels (225 and 500 litre / 60% new)
Bottling: February 2013
2011 was a challenging growing season in Tuscany due to shortage of rain and high summer temperatures. Yields were reduced in order to maintain quality standards. The alcohol is slightly higher than usual but the wines retain the balance expected from the Fonterutoli range.
A remarkable combination of intensity and elegance, this wine displays ripe red berry fruit, blackberry, blackcurrant, mocha, Morello cherry and a touch of liqourice alongside a muscular structure, fine tannins, balanced with pleasant acidity and a rich, long finish.
Excellent with game, roasted meats, stews, truffles, mature cheese.
Ageing potential: Over 20 years
Daniele Cernilli: 97 Points
James Suckling: 93 Points
Antonio Galloni: 92 Points
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG
92% Sangiovese
8% Malvasia Nera and Colorino
Natural Cork
13.7%
6.3 g/l
