Fonterutoli Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva 2022
Vintage
2022
Region
Chianti Classico, Tuscany
Country
Italy
Style
Still
Grape Varieties
Sangiovese, Merlot
ABV
13.5%
Dietary
Vegan, Vegetarian
Sustainability
-
Castello di Fonterutoli
Castello di Fonterutoli is a historic Chianti Classico estate in Tuscany, Italy, owned by the Mazzei family since 1435 and located near Castellina in Chianti. Known for Sangiovese-led Tuscan wine, Chianti Classico, Chianti Classico Riserva, Gran Selezione and Super Tuscan blends, Fonterutoli combines almost six centuries of heritage with precision viticulture and a state-of-the-art gravity cellar. Castello di Fonterutoli offers a benchmark for Chianti Classico and Tuscan fine wine, with a range that spans regional identity, single-parcel expression and age-worthy red wines.
Read MoreViticulture
Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva 2022 comes from the Cornia and Caggiolo vineyard sites. Cornia sits at 250 to 330 metres above sea level on clay and limestone soils, while Caggiolo lies at 290 to 350 metres on calcareous Alberese with clay texture. The vines are 20 to 35 years old, spur-cordon trained and planted at 4,500 to 7,500 vines per hectare. These sites give the wine structure, depth and a clear Chianti Classico Riserva profile.
Vinification
The grapes were hand-picked from 28 September. Fermentation took place at 26 to 28C, with maceration lasting 15 to 18 days to build colour, structure and aromatic complexity. The wine was aged for 12 months in 225 and 500-litre French oak barrels, 50% new, adding depth and controlled oak integration. Bottling took place in December 2024, following maturation designed to balance freshness, tannin and savoury complexity.
2022
The 2022 vintage had a mild winter with scarce rainfall, followed by gradually rising spring temperatures that encouraged steady vine growth. Sangiovese budbreak began around 10 April, while flowering started around 16 May. Hot, dry summer conditions thickened the grape skins and helped the fruit withstand ripening. Low rainfall reduced yields, but grape health was strong. Harvest ran from 1 September to 6 October, producing a good vintage with concentration and structure.
Tasting Note
Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva 2022 shows berry aromas, earthy nuance and an intense, structured profile. The palate is fresh and firmly built, with concentrated fruit, clear tannic definition and savoury depth. Medium to full-bodied, it combines Chianti Classico freshness with the additional weight and texture expected of Riserva. The finish is long, structured and persistent, with fruit, earth and spice carrying through.
Food Pairing
Pair with roast lamb, beef rag?, wild boar pasta, game, grilled steak, porcini mushrooms, truffle dishes, aged Pecorino or mature Tuscan cheeses.