Castello di Ama Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo 2021

Perched in the hilltop hamlet of Ama in Gaiole in Chianti, in the southern-most reaches of Chianti Classico, Castello di Ama lies around 12 miles northeast of Siena. Founded in 1976 by four families who recognised the potential of its galestro-rich soils and exceptional microclimate, the estate brought new life to a property that had stood abandoned for over twenty years.

Today, Castello di Ama encompasses around 75 hectares of vineyards alongside 40 hectares of olive groves, and is led by Lorenza Sebasti, a member of the second generation of one of its founding families. Winemaking has long been entrusted to Marco Pallanti, who joined in 1982 and went on to serve as President of the Chianti Classico Consorzio, helping to shape both the estate’s identity and the wider region’s modern reputation.

95/100 - A clever bridge between the entire Castello di Ama stable, San Lorenzo is a selection of older vines from key estate vineyards. It also includes both Merlot and Malvasia Nera, which contribute to the identity of the cru bottlings. In 2021, this flagbearer is a brilliant balance of fruit and territorial expression with deftly integrated oak. Tobacco, iron and nutmeg infuse dark plum and cherry. There is great flow and length, with tangy, mouth-cleansing acidity. Articulate aromas and flavours along with finessed tannins give a sense of readiness – but that authoritative structure has the last word. - Michaela Morris, Decanter

95/100 - This wine represents a selection of the best Sangiovese sourced from various plots with a tiny addition of Merlot and Malvasia Nera. The Castello di Ama 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo takes a few extra moments to open in the glass, but unlike the La Casuccia that holds back, this wine comes into full view quickly enough. The wine’s flavor profile is a little meatier and fuller, and this could be linked to the warm vintage conditions. San Lorenzo is a generous wine, and it is a bottle you can enjoy in the medium or long term. - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate