#11 - Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2023

Gran Selezione is the newest quality designation to have been added to the DOCG classification system in Chianti Classico. Gran Selezione takes quality controls a step further than Riserva-- which previously occupied the top tier-- by banning the use of any purchased, or non-estate-grown fruit, in the inclusion of a wine labeled Gran Selezione. This coupled with longer aging requirements (30 months minimum) and minimum levels of alcohol set to 13% designates a band of wines from Chianti Classico producers representative of the appellation's highest quality potential with often limited availability.

Vineyard: Castello di Bossi's Gran Selezione is precisely that-- a selection of the best quality fruit grown across the Bacci family's Castelnuovo Berardenga estate in any given vintage. Whilst this wine will always contain a portion of fruit sourced from the noble Corbaia Vineyard, different areas of the estate may feature in the cuvee depending on the weather conditions and ripening observed over the course of a vintage growing season.

Tasting Notes: Deep ruby in color with garnet lights that hint at the wine's extended barrel aging, Castello di Bossi Gran Selezione is explosive in its intensity, and yet the wine manages an astounding complexity and finesse. Aromas of rich black cherry and plum integrate well with cedar, sweet cooking spices, chocolate, and saddle leather. On the palate, the wine is fleshy and dense. The finish achieves great balance and very pronounced length. This is a wine that will age with grace for many years.

Food Pairing: Match Castello di Bossi Gran Selezione with robust main courses. Roasted and grilled meats pair easily with Gran Selezione while well-seasoned cheeses and hardy vegetable-based stews broaden the scope.