There are plenty of excellent Chianti Classicos, but Gran Selezione represents the very top tier of the appellation, and this wine shows exactly why. Castello di Meleto’s Gran Selezione is a serious yet beautifully balanced expression of Sangiovese, combining the grape’s trademark freshness with remarkable depth, structure and ageing potential. The wine opens with aromas of ripe cherry, wild raspberry and red plum, gradually revealing layers of lavender, dried herbs, sweet spice and subtle earthy notes. On the palate it feels powerful but never heavy, with vibrant acidity carrying the fruit through a framework of polished, velvety tannins. As it develops in the glass, notes of iron, tobacco, black tea and woodland herbs emerge, adding further complexity. Richly textured yet precise and elegant, this is a wine that captures both the character of Sangiovese and the unique identity of Chianti Classico. It is equally rewarding now with food or after several years in the cellar.
Castello di Meleto Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Estate & Terroir
Nestled in the hills of Gaiole in Chianti, Castello di Meleto is one of Tuscany’s most historic wine estates. The medieval castle dates back centuries and today sits at the heart of one of the largest organic wine estates in Chianti Classico. The winery farms exclusively estate-owned vineyards and is known for combining traditional Tuscan winemaking with a strong commitment to sustainability and quality. Great attention is paid to vineyard management and fruit selection, with only the finest grapes destined for the estate’s flagship wines. Their Gran Selezione bottlings are designed to showcase the very best vineyard sites and represent the pinnacle of the estate’s production.
Castello di Meleto Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Terroir & Winemaking
Gran Selezione wines must be produced exclusively from estate-grown fruit and undergo extended ageing, making them some of the most site-specific wines in Chianti Classico. The vineyards around Gaiole are known for producing wines with excellent structure, freshness and longevity. Harvesting is carried out entirely by hand, with rigorous selection both in the vineyard and again at the winery. Fermentation is followed by extended maturation in large oak casks for approximately 27 months, before a further period of bottle ageing. This patient approach allows the wine to develop complexity while preserving the purity and vibrancy of Sangiovese. The result is a wine of remarkable balance, where fruit, tannin and acidity work together seamlessly.
Castello di Meleto Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Tasting Notes
Deep ruby red in colour. Aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry and red plum are layered with lavender, dried herbs, sweet spice and subtle tobacco notes. The palate is structured and elegant, showing vibrant red fruit, velvety tannins, refreshing acidity and a long, complex finish.
Its structure and depth also make it suitable for cellaring, with the potential to age gracefully for 10-15 years.
Food pairing suggestion: Slow-Braised Beef Short Rib with Rosemary and Polenta
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