Castello Banfi : Fonte alla Selva Gran Selezione 2019

Tasting characteristics and advice for the Fonte alla Selva Gran Selezione 2019 from Castello Banfi

Tasting

Color

The wine displays a deep ruby-red hue with subtle purplish highlights.

Nose

The nose reveals beautiful aromatic complexity dominated by notes of cherry and plum, accented by touches of blackberry and raspberry. Aromas of licorice and sweet spices mingle with delicate notes of dried herbs and dried flowers, while mineral nuances and orange zest bring freshness to the whole.

Palate

On the palate, this wine is generous and structured, with an impressive presence. Flavors of cherry and plum lead the attack, supported by a refreshing acidity that lends vibrancy. The tannins, firm yet polished, are well integrated and provide a silky texture. The long, elegant finish lingers on notes of sweet spices and licorice, with a persistent mineral impression.

Food and wine pairings

This Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is an ideal match for Tuscan red meats, notably bistecca alla fiorentina. It also pairs beautifully with roasted meats, game such as wild boar or venison, as well as Italian cured meats and aged cheeses like pecorino. Pasta with meat-based sauces, such as wild boar ragù, also makes an excellent pairing.

Serving and cellaring

The Fonte alla Selva Gran Selezione 2019 can be enjoyed now but will continue to evolve favorably until around 2026. It is best served at a temperature between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for 30 to 60 minutes before serving will allow the wine to open fully and express its full aromatic complexity.

A Chianti Classico Gran Selezione from Tuscany combining power and elegance

The estate

Founded in 1978 in Montalcino, Castello Banfi is an iconic Tuscan estate, born from the restoration of a historic castle and the planting of new vineyards in a pursuit of excellence. The estate is now owned by the Mariani family, through the Italo-American brothers John and Harry Mariani, who ensure family stewardship.

The vineyard

The vineyard from which this Chianti Classico originates lies in the Castellina in Chianti area, at the heart of the appellation. The plots are planted on relatively shallow sandy-clay soils, which promote aromatic concentration and contribute to the wine’s intensity. This soil composition also brings the characteristic acidic balance of this prestigious Tuscan terroir.

The vintage

The 2019 vintage in Tuscany began with a spring marked by unusually cold temperatures in March and April, delaying the vine’s growing cycle. Fortunately, August and September benefited from ideal weather conditions, with mild, sunny days that allowed the grapes to reach optimal ripeness. This favorable development gave rise to wines of great structure, endowed with vibrant savoriness and a strong sense of place.

Winemaking and aging

Winemaking for the Fonte alla Selva Gran Selezione 2019 begins with a rigorous selection of the best parcels. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks at a controlled temperature between 25 and 30°C, with skin maceration for around seven days to extract color, tannins, and aromatic precursors. The wine is then aged for 12 to 14 months in French oak barrels, followed by a period of bottle rest before release, in accordance with the requirements of the Gran Selezione classification, which mandates a minimum of 30 months of total aging.

Grape variety

Sangiovese complemented by traditional Chianti Classico grape varieties.