Castello Fonterutoli ‘Ser Lapo’ Chianti Classico Riserva 2015

Producer Information

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. Over 6 centuries ago Ser Lapo Mazzei was the first, in 1398, to compile a legal record , where “Chianti wine” was formally mentioned as a denomination. 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.

Vineyards

Vineyard location: Altitude: 250 – 330 m.a.s.l.
Soil: Medium texture, with loam and limestone
Vineyard age: 10 – 30 years
Training system: Spur cordon-training
Vine Density: 4.500 – 7.500 plants
Harvest: Hand picked from September 22nd (Sangiovese), from September 7th (Merlot)

Winemaking

Fermentation temperature: 26 – 28 °C
Maceration: 15 – 18 days
Ageing: 12 months in small french oak barrels (225/500 lt – 50% new)
Bottling: February 2018
Formats: 750 ml – 1,5 lt

Vintage Information

“2015 was characterized by a rainy winter which resulted in very good supply of water. A mild spring and an hot summer followed with some rainfall in late July and a drop of temperatures after mid-August, which established the ideal conditions for a great ripening season with ideal concentration of of aromatics and polyphenols. 2015 produced balanced wines with richness and firm structure, complex aromas and a long ageing potential.
Harvest started: 7/09/15
Harvest ended: 8/10/15
Sum of rainfall between April 1st and September 30th: 228mm
Temperature Index (sum of average daily temperatures from April 1st to September 30th): 3739°C”

Castello di Fonterutoli

Tasting Note

Vibrant ruby colour with ripe aromas of juicy strawberry, cherry, elegant spices and a touch of earthiness. On the palate, the fruit is predominant and is seamlessly blended with savoury and earthy notes. Structured with glossy tannins and great freshness that make the 2015 Ser Lapo a very food-friendly wine with a rich, long finish.

Food Pairing

Pasta with rich game sauces, stews, grilled red meats and semi-mature cheeses

Serving Suggestion

Ageing potential: Over 10 years

Press

Notably pale crimson. Fragrant and lively. Smooth and polished and sheer joy to taste. Transparent and aérien.”, 17.5 poins, Jancis Robinson MW

There’s cedar and tobacco here, but it’s backed up by lovely, fresh, wild strawberries, raspberry cheesecake and redcurrants. Full body, polished tannins and beautifully linear acidity. Finishes long and elegantly., 95 points, James Suckling

Chianti Classico
90% Sangiovese
10% Merlot

Natural Cork
13.35%
6.02 g/l
Yes
Yes

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