The Chiantis of Castello di Ama are reference points in any vintage. The Ama, Montebuoni, and San Lorenzo are routinely hailed by critics for their classically styled, precise expressions. In 2023, however, severely reduced yields resulted in the winemaking team blending all three parcels into one bottling of Ama. Normally, this might be a cause for concern, but in the case of the 2023 Ama, it has all come together in a stunning representation of the estate's finest terroirs and a top-tier expression that has already garnered some serious press, led by 95 points from James Suckling. "A refined Chianti Classico with firm, racy tannins that give length and beauty," says Suckling, while Antonio Galloni declares, "Dynamic and vibrant in the glass, with superb character, the 2023 massively overdelivers." The best feature of all is the unbelievable price for a stupendous collectible-caliber bargain that will show off beautifully for a decade or more.
In the reference-point 2021 vintage, the entire range reached new heights of excellence, but it's the San Lorenzo, however, that stands above the rest in unequivocal fashion, with a 99-point score from James Suckling and Wine Spectator Top Ten honors leading a stunning critical line. Blended from the finest lots of fruit from Bellavista, Casuccia, San Lorenzo, and Montebuoni estate vineyards, this is apex Sangiovese, with a touch of Merlot and Malvasia Nera adding dimension and depth. The outstanding growing season imparts its own signature on the finished wine, which is, as Wine Spectator describes it, "deep, dark, and densely wrought" with firm structural backbone married to ultra-pure Sangiovese character. Kerin O'Keefe's 97-point review calls it "a gorgeous wine ... Elegant and showing great precision," all features that portend a long life in the cellar despite its thoroughly enjoyable and accessible profile today. Antonio Galloni called Castello di Ama's entire range "truly special" in 2021, and once you experience the San Lorenzo, you'll know exactly what he's talking about.
Finally, don't miss a handful of San Lorenzo magnums from the equally outstanding 2019 vintage, a "delightfully harmonious, balanced, and complete" version that notched 97 points from James Suckling and which is sure to cruise in the cellar in this "ideal collectible format."
Top Quality Store
