Historic Chianti Bottling from the Prodigious Mazzei Family

2015 Castello Fonterutoli 'MIX 36' Toscana Sangiovese (Elsewhere $75) ($34.99)

Orazio Campoli | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 16, 2025

The 2015 Castello Fonterutoli 'MIX 36' is a state-of-the-art Sangiovese that represents the culmination of more than three decades of research and dedication by the Mazzei family. Produced in the heart of Chianti Classico, this is a blend of 36 different biotypes of Sangiovese, carefully selected and bred to highlight the diversity and complexity of Tuscany's signature grape.This is the last vintage before they assigned the appellation Chianti Classico Gran Selezione to this wine. It is therefore an historical label, that proves that only good Sangioveses is used for the Gran Selezione tier and vice versa, this wine is indeed using the top of the top of Sangioveses out there. The 2015 vintage is also one of Tuscany's most famous growing seasons which brings extra ripeness and richness to this wine. Aged in French oak barrels for 18 months to achieve the perfect balance between power and elegance. The 'MIX 36' project reflects Castello Fonterutoli's commitment to innovation and tradition. Ive always been intrigued by this project. It combines cutting-edge viticulture techniques with a deep respect for the Chianti terroir.

94 points James Suckling: "What a lovely, spicy and fresh-herb edge to this Tuscan red. Theres Thai basil, bay leaf and black pepper, which in turn complement the aromas of fresh blackcurrants, blueberries and spices. Full-bodied and very tight with bright acidity and fine, firm tannins. Drink in 2020."

93-94 points Wine Advocate: "This wine shows a particularly delicious and irresistible side in this warm and sunny vintage. The 2015 Mix 36 (from an experimental vineyard with 36 biotypes of Sangiovese) makes a great first impression, thanks to the soft and velvety nature of its fruit. The bouquet offers ripe cherry and blackberry preserves with sweet tobacco and cigar box."

93 points Vinous: "Mazzei's 2015 Mix 36, a blend of 36 Sangiovese clones, is another very pretty and expressive wine in this range. Sweet red berry and floral notes offer lovely brightness as this gracious, energetic Sangiovese shows off its personality. In 2015, the Mix 36 is not as differentiated from the other wines as it typically is, but that is a function of the vintage."