Castello di Ama Chianti Classico AMA 2022

Region and Vineyards

The Castello di Ama estate is located in the picturesque village of Gaiole in Chianti, at the heart of Tuscany’s historic Chianti Classico region. The vineyards, situated at altitudes between 450 and 520 meters (1,500–1,720 feet), benefit from a mix of clay and calcareous soils, ideal for cultivating Sangiovese.

The 2022 vintage experienced a dry summer, with no rain from June until mid-August, challenging the vines. However, timely rainfall in mid-August rejuvenated the vineyards, leading to exceptional fruit concentration and balance. Harvest occurred from September 12th to October 4th, with meticulous attention to detail ensuring the highest quality.

Winemaking

Castello di Ama Chianti Classico AMA 2022 is a blend of 96% Sangiovese and 4% Merlot, showcasing the estate’s dedication to varietal expression and balance. Each grape variety was vinified separately in stainless steel tanks using natural yeasts at controlled temperatures.

The wine underwent malolactic fermentation in French oak barriques, followed by a 12-month aging period in second-use oak barrels to enhance complexity while preserving freshness. The final blend reflects the harmony of traditional Sangiovese and a touch of Merlot’s softness, resulting in a structured yet approachable wine.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red with garnet reflections.
• Aroma: Enticing notes of red currant, cherry, and violet, layered with subtle hints of strawberry and spice.
• Palate: Medium-bodied and harmonious, with flavors of ripe red fruit, chalky minerality, and a touch of white pepper. The silky tannins and vibrant acidity lead to a crisp, refreshing finish.

Did You Know?

First introduced in 2010, the AMA Chianti Classico was created to highlight the younger, more productive vines at Castello di Ama. These vines are cultivated separately from older plantings, which are reserved for the estate’s Gran Selezione wines, ensuring a clear expression of each vineyard’s character.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Pasta al Pomodoro: The wine’s acidity complements the tomato’s brightness, while its tannins enhance the dish’s texture.
• Grilled pork chops with rosemary: The minerality and fresh red fruit balance the savory and herbal flavors.
• Eggplant Parmigiana: The silky tannins and vibrant profile pair beautifully with the rich, cheesy layers.
• Pecorino Toscano: A classic pairing, the wine’s freshness enhances the salty and nutty qualities of this traditional cheese.

History of Castello di Ama

Founded in 1976, Castello di Ama is the vision of four families who sought to restore a historic estate to its former glory. Today, the estate is led by Lorenza Sebasti, daughter of one of the founding partners, serving as CEO, alongside Marco Pallanti, who has been the estate's oenologist since 1982 and has also served as President of the Chianti Classico Consortium.

Under their leadership, Castello di Ama has become synonymous with innovation and excellence. In the 1980s, the estate played a pivotal role in consolidating the concept of "cru" in Chianti Classico, producing selections such as Vigneto Bellavista (first vintage in 1978) and Vigneto La Casuccia (first vintage in 1985). Their commitment to quality and terroir expression has placed Castello di Ama among the leading wineries in Italy.

Region and Vineyards

The vineyards of Castello di Ama are situated at altitudes ranging between 420 and 527 meters (1,378 to 1,729 feet) above sea level, encompassing approximately 75 hectares (185 acres) around the village of Ama. These vineyards are distributed across four valleys, traditionally known as Bellavista, San Lorenzo, La Casuccia, and Montebuoni, each contributing unique characteristics to the wines.

• Bellavista Vineyard: Covering 22.5 hectares, this south/southwest-facing vineyard lies between 427 and 515 meters in elevation. The soil is predominantly pebbly clay and limestone, ideal for Sangiovese and Malvasia Nera. Since 1978, it has produced the esteemed Vigneto Bellavista cru.

• San Lorenzo Vineyard: Spanning 16.5 hectares at altitudes between 466 and 525 meters, this east/southeast-facing vineyard is named after a 15th-century chapel in Ama. Acquired in 1972, it serves as the primary source for the Gran Selezione San Lorenzo.

• La Casuccia Vineyard: Extending over 16.1 hectares at elevations ranging from 483 to 527 meters, this vineyard is notable for its terraced layout with north/south-oriented rows. The clay-rich soil with abundant stones contributes to the complexity of the Vigneto La Casuccia cru, first produced in 1985.

• Montebuoni Vineyard: Acquired in 1997, this 14.7-hectare vineyard faces south/southwest and sits between 420 and 508 meters in altitude. The soil varies from clay-rich at lower elevations to limestone and stony at higher points, enhancing the diversity of the estate's wine portfolio.

The combination of high elevation, limestone-clay soils, and meticulous vineyard management practices, including high-density planting and sustainable farming, enables Castello di Ama to produce wines of exceptional character and longevity.

Wine Range of Castello di Ama

Castello di Ama produces a variety of wines that highlight the terroir and the nuances of each vintage:

• Chianti Classico Gran Selezione: Wines like San Lorenzo, Vigneto Bellavista, and Vigneto La Casuccia set benchmarks for excellence with their structured and elegant profiles.

• L’Apparita: A 100% Merlot wine, recognized as one of Tuscany’s finest mono-varietal wines, first produced in 1985.

• Ama Chianti Classico: A younger expression of the estate, crafted from the estate’s younger vines, offering freshness and approachability.

Did You Know?

Castello di Ama’s dedication to art and culture is exemplified by its contemporary art installations throughout the estate. These works, commissioned from internationally renowned artists, provide a modern counterpoint to the estate’s historic architecture and timeless wines.