2018 CASTELLO DI AMA SAN LORENZO CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE Founded in 1976 by four visionary families, Castello di Ama is a testament to their recognition of the estate's immense potential. These families' collective ambition propelled the meticulous restoration of vineyards and the construction of a state-of-the-art winery. At the helm of this viticultural haven, Marco Pallanti also held the position of President of the Chianti Classico Consortium from 2006 to 2012. During his tenure, Pallanti contributed to the Gran Selezione category, the pinnacle of quality within the Chianti Classico hierarchy. These distinguished wines must originate from either a single estate or a collection of contiguous vineyards owned by the same producer and undergo a minimum aging period of 30 months. Perched 1525 to 1725 feet above sea level, the San Lorenzo Vineyard commands a prime position in the heartland of Sangiovese production. The 2018 vintage attests to this excellence, boasting an impressive array of accolades, ensuring a truly exceptional experience for discerning enthusiasts. Additional Reviews: "The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is a deep, potent wine. Black cherry, gravel, smoke, licorice, chocolate, spice infuse the San Lorenzo with tons of dark Sangiovese character. A heady, muscular wine, the 2019 exudes tremendous richness. I would give it a few years. The 2018 is a wine of aromatic intrigue and intensity." 94 Points "Castello di Ama’s ‘estate’ Gran Selezione brings together fruit from its high-altitude vineyards of Bellavista, Casuccia, San Lorenzo and Montebuoni – all in Gaiole. The future direction of this wine is uncertain as it is blended with a small percentage of Merlot, which will no longer be permitted at the Gran Selezione level. It is delightfully scented with cherry, rosehip and lilac atop brushwood and forest undergrowth. Elegantly proportioned, the palate is mineral driven, vertical in extension and gracious in its execution. Oak provides a sophisticated, understated frame melding well with finessed tannins. There's a charming finale of blood orange notes." 94 Points