Castello di Bossi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2016

One of the newest and strictest Italian wine laws comes in Chianti, where Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Reservas now have a new leader to chase with the classification of Gran Selezione that represents the best of the best. Literally translating to “the greatest selection”, Gran Selezione is above Riserva, and made using grapes harvested only from the winery’s own vineyards, with upgraded requirements for alcohol, extract, and aging.

It has to contain at least 80% Sangiovese – all estate grown, at least 13% abv, aged for at least 30 months with 3 of those having to come in a bottle. It’s a bear– but the wines that do meet these requirements, are excellent– especially the ones that come from the beloved commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga. That’s exactly what I have today from Costello di Bossi.

Since taking over the Castello di Bossi in 1998, famous winemaker and entrepreneur Marco Bacci (Renieri) has helped overhaul the massive Castelnuovo Berardenga property into one of the region’s best once again. Having the help of superstar consultant Alberto Antonini doesn’t hurt either.

Together, the two have done amazing things, but their brand new release of Gran Selezione Chianti Classico is easily at the top of the list. A 97-point firecracker, the wine has great dark cherry, blueberry, and blackberry components, with a mixture of tea leaves, baking spices and a hint of cigar box on the nose. These are the muscular, chewy Chiantis that usually fetch a pretty penny– but Castello di Bossi’s GS is easily the highest scored, most reasonably priced of the bunch.