Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Santa Caterina takes its name from a single vineyard covering just a little more than five hectares on a south-facing slope, at an average altitude of 550 metres. It is a privileged parcel due to the composition of the soil, rich in galestro (a rocky, schistous clay soil), and to the quality of the Sangiovese grapes grown there. Vinified from a single variety, with a long ageing period in wood barrels, they turn into a shiny wine in the glass, with an invigorating scent and a strong, long-lasting taste that
encapsulates the very soul of Castello di Albola.

2016 climate
2016 proved to be an excellent vintage, characterized by ideal climatic conditions during all the phenological phases of the vine. A mild winter and a spring with average seasonal temperatures was followed by a relatively warm summer with moderate rainfall at regular intervals, which ensured the vines had sufficient water reserves during the crucial ripening phase. The marked temperature variations and constant breezes also helped to keep the Castello di Albola vineyards dry and the Sangiovese grapes to reach the harvest in perfect condition. Our Chianti Classico vintage 2016 is a red that stands out for its remarkable aromatic finesse and very well-balanced body.

Vinification and ageing
Fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature, where it is left to macerate for about 3 weeks. Once the malolactic fermentation process has come to an end, 50% of the wine is placed in barriques and the other half in large Slavonian oak barrels to age for 14 months, followed by a further year and a half in the bottle.

Tasting notes
colour: intense ruby red flecked with burgundy.
bouquet: intense and elegant with floral notes of lily and a good concentration
of ripe red fruit.
flavour: strong and full-bodied with sweet tannins. Long, persistent finish.

Food pairings
Excellent with flavourful first courses, red meat, meat roasts, game, aged and medium-aged cheeses.