Marchesi Mazzei, Fonterutoli Chianti Classico, Tuscany, DOCG, dry, red

‘It comes from Tuscany, specifically from Fonterutoli between Castellina and San Leonino. This beautiful region between Florence and Siena is the heart of the Chianti region and the wines produced here are entitled to bear the title Chianti Classico. The Fonterutoli Chianti Classico comes from the very good 2021 vintage and consists of 90% Sangiovese, supplemented by 5% Colorino and 5% Malvasia Nera, two other traditional Tuscan grape varieties. It was aged for 12 months in a mixture of French barriques and 500-litre tonneaux before spending a few more weeks in cement barrels, which gives it its harmonious texture. The alcohol content is 14%. The wine is ready to drink now, but should first be decanted into a carafe. However, the wine can also be decanted ‘easily’: Simply pour into a glass and leave the rest of the bottle lightly closed (with the cork only slightly open) for a while – the residual air in the bottle aerates and opens the wine. This wine can be stored in the cellar until 2030 without hesitation and will then become even more elegant and supple.’