Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Bellavista, Castello di Ama 2019

The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista soars out of the glass with breathtaking intensity in all of its dimensions. The aromatics alone are striking, but that's just the beginning. Rich and sumptuous on the palate, the 2019 is the most refined Bellavista I have ever tasted, and I have tasted them all. A healthy dollop of Malvasia Nera adds savory notes and a good deal of grip, while clean mineral nuances extend the finish. The tannins are especially polished, which they rarely are in a young Bellavista. 2027-2044

The glorious Bellavista Vineyard appears under the sunlight over the slope of a hill as you approach Castello di Ama. The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista is only produced in the very best vintages, and annual production hovers from 5,000 to 6,000 bottles. Production was skipped in 2017, 2014, 2012 and 2010. This stunning wine reveals beautiful concentration with just the right amount of fruit weight, which feels rich but not heavy. The wine also appears compact and firm, with outstanding depth that is teased across aromas of wild berry fruit, crushed mineral, rose, tobacco and minty herb. The wine's complexity unfolds carefully with time in the glass.