What kind of wine is Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 'Ser Lapo' 2021 - Mazzei, Castello di Fonterutoli

The Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 'Ser Lapo' 2021 - Mazzei, Castello di Fonterutoli is an elegant and structured red wine, an authentic expression of the Chianti Classico hills. It is made primarily from Sangiovese grapes with a small proportion of Merlot, which softens its profile and adds depth. It is a full-bodied, balanced, and persistent wine, capable of narrating the long winemaking tradition of the Mazzei family, owners of Castello di Fonterutoli since 1435.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage stands out for its regular climatic trend, characterized by a dry and sunny summer, but with cool nights that preserved the acidity of the grapes. The harvest, carried out manually in October, allowed only perfectly ripe bunches to be selected. This balance between daytime warmth and nighttime coolness has created a wine rich in aromas and well-defined fruity notes, supported by a pleasant freshness and silky tannins.

Winemaking and aging

The fermentation of Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 'Ser Lapo' 2021 takes place in stainless steel, a choice that allows the natural expression of the fruit to be maintained intact. The maceration of the skins — the period in which the must remains in contact with the solid parts of the grape — lasts about two weeks, allowing for the extraction of color, aromas, and structure. Subsequently, the wine ages for approximately 12 months in French oak barriques, where it gains complexity and its tannins round out, before resting further in the bottle for a perfect gustatory balance.

Tasting Notes

A wine that embodies the classicism and elegance of the Chianti Classico Riserva appellation, with a rich and harmonious aromatic profile.

Color

In the glass, it presents an intense ruby red with garnet reflections, a sign of its maturity and decisive character.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses a broad and refined bouquet, with notes of black cherry, plum, and small red fruits, followed by delicate hints of sweet spices, tobacco, and a balsamic touch. The olfactory complexity is one of the distinctive signatures of this Riserva, a symbol of Mazzei's mastery.

Palate

On the palate, it is full and enveloping, with a balanced structure and fine yet firm tannins. The persistence in the mouth is long, marked by a savory and slightly spicy finish that invites another sip. The overall sensation is one of great harmony and authority.

Food Pairings for Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 'Ser Lapo' 2021 - Mazzei, Castello di Fonterutoli

This wine pairs perfectly with traditional Tuscan dishes and all red meat and game preparations. Ideal pairings include:

• Bistecca alla fiorentina or sliced beef
• Aromatic braises and stews
• Wild boar stew or pappardelle with hare sauce
• Aged hard cheeses, such as Tuscan pecorino or parmesan

Its versatility also makes it perfect for accompanying modern dishes and gourmet recipes, where the aromatic component of the wine enhances the nuances of the food without overpowering them.

Storage and aging: how to store Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 'Ser Lapo' 2021 - Mazzei, Castello di Fonterutoli

To best appreciate its qualities over time, it is important to store Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 'Ser Lapo' 2021 - Mazzei, Castello di Fonterutoli in a cool, dark environment, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C and controlled humidity. The bottle should be stored horizontally, so that the cork remains constantly moist and ensures a perfect seal.

Thanks to its structure and the aging in wood, this wine has a remarkable capacity for evolution over time: it can further improve for 8-10 years if well preserved. With aging, it develops further elegance, with more complex aromas and an even more velvety tannic texture.