We continue our special series of episodes from Chianti Classico. In this episode we visit Castello di Fonterutoli just south of Chianti Classico. It’s on this spot, that the riders of the legend of the black rooster met. The tiny hamlet no loner houses the winery, it is still home to the Mazzei family’s agroturismo and osteria (a great place to have a traditional, highly regional dinner!). The new winery is a modern, high tech winemaking facility, built into the hillside that still uses time honored traditions of vinification. The Mazzei family has been involved in the wine business for 24 generation and holds a unique place in U.S. history. It is said that Philip Mazzei inspired Thomas Jefferson to write that “All men are by nature equally free and independent.” Today brothers Francesco and Filippo continue the family’s legacy of making great wine. I met with Francesco at the winery south of Castellina in Chianti to discuss the family’s heritage, the importance of Chianti Classico and of course to taste some delicious wine.
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Francesco Mazzei, Managing Director, Castello di Fonterutoli
2016 Fonterutoli Chianti Classico
An earthy nose showing notes of mushrooms, forest floor, cranberry and purple flowers. On the palate this medium bodied wine brings flavors of bing cherry, milk chocolate and a touch of mint. Fine tannins and bright acidity round out this food friendly wine
SRP: 27.99
2016 Fonterutoli Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva
Aromas of dried mixed red berries, forest floor, notes of black olive. A medium-full body brings about flavors of over-ripe cherry, black licorice, hints of clove and sage. Firm, grippy tannins and forward acidity let you know you’re drinking Chianti Classico.
SRP: $29.99
2015 Castello di Fonterutoli Gran Selezione
Bright ruby in color. An elegant and complex nose that coyly calls out to you. Gorgeous balance on the palate between earth, fruit, and acid. Flavors of cherry, cocoa, lead to a long complex finish. Fine silky tannins. Drinks great now but will age for 10 to 30 years or more.
SRP: 74.99
2016 Fonterutoli Seipi Toscano IGT
A blend of 50% merlot and 50% sangiovese. These two varieties complement each other beautifully in this intriguing Super Tuscan blend. Nose of black cherry and purple flowers. Flavors of black cherry, black plum, tobacco and cocoa mingle harmoniously together in this lush elegant bodied wine.
The Honest Pour with John Lenart 
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