Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2023

Rooted largely in schist, the 2023 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione spent its first year in 33% new French oak before moving to neutral barrels and barriques for a second, then rested 6 months in bottle before release. A shimmering ruby-purple core of medium-plus depth gives way to a vivid neon red rim, and the nose builds layers of marionberry, blackberry, and blue plum skin around dried rose petals, shaved dark chocolate, and cedar-tinged mountain herbs. The palate turns more savory, with blackcurrant and wild thyme gaining ground as chalky tannins and moderate-plus acidity hold the full-bodied frame firmly in place. Hints of tobacco leaf and graphite are already emerging, and another two years in bottle will help everything settle, ideally from 2028 onward. 2000 cases.