In terms of base Chianti Classico, the Mazzei family offers one of the nicest and most consistent wines you can buy from this storied region. The 2017 Chianti Classico Fonterutoli is 90% Sangiovese with 10% complementary grapes, all aged in 225-liter and 500-liter French oak for 12 months. The tricky part of this vintage was the heat and drought that forced yields down by quite a large margin across the appellation. This wine navigates these challenges with a deft hand, showing ripe and dark aromas of pressed cherry and plum with pretty toast and spice. – M.L.
