Mazzei, since 1435

~ The Mazzei family library documents the lineage back to Ser Lapo Mazzei in 1435 ~

Marchesi Mazzei has an unparalleled heritage steeped in Tuscan wine-making tradition. Their rich story begins centuries ago in the medieval hamlet of Castello di Fonterutoli, the heart of their wine production. 

The Fonterutoli estate in Chianti Classico has been owned by the Mazzei family since 1435, and has passed down through 24 generations. Today, Marchesi Mazzei is one of the ten oldest family businesses in Italy and one of the most acclaimed names in Italian wine.  I chronicled the early story of Ser Lapo Mazzei in one of my most popular articles a few years ago. 

~ Barriques in the Aging Cantina at Fonterutoli ~

Recently we sampled the 2010 Fonterutoli Chianti Classico.   A deep ruby in the glass, the wine is very closed down at the moment and reticent on the nose.  There are slight aromas of cherry with hints of spice and cedar.  Not much else.  On the palate, the wine is medium bodied and austere. I'm not sure what's going on here, but there isn't much exuberance to the fruit.  With hangar steak and herb compound butter, the fruit plumped up a bit, but given the overall touting of the 2010 vintage, this Classico seems lacking at the moment.  Perhaps a year or two in the cellar will do this well, but I'm not so sure.  Given that there are are lots of other charming Classicos to choose from, I'm not inclined to wait.  84 points, about $15. 

~ The 2010 is 80% Sangiovese with Malvasia, Colorino, and Merlot in the blend ~

Cin Cin!