2016 Castello di Ama, Chianti Classico, Bellavista 1x150cl

James Suckling 97

A glorious and racy red with ultra-fine tannins that are polished and very intense. It grows on the palate and delivers fabulous crushed raspberries, apple skins and wet earth. Lovely combination of ripeness and transparency. Drink in 2021, but wonderful to taste now if you decant it. [01/07/2019]

Robert Parker 98

The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista sees fruit sourced from one of Castello di Ama’s most beautiful vineyards with a wide exposures and plenty of sunshine. This wine shows profound complexity and a far-reaching bouquet that evolves slowly in the glass. Of these three single-vineyard Gran Selezione wines (Bellavista, La Casuccia and San Lorenzo), the Vigneto Bellavista is the most complete, but it is also the most linear and streamlined in terms of mouthfeel. I would bet on putting this wine aside in your cellar for a longer aging time. [01/09/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2042

Vinous 98

Ama’s 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista is a flat out stunner. Dark and brooding in its first impression, the 2016 races out of the glass with explosive vertical lift. This structured, potent Chianti Classico won’t be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is immensely promising. Savory herbs, crushed rocks, chalk and dried flowers add myriad layers of dimension. The 2016 is complex, nuanced and built for cellaring. [Antonio Galloni, 01/09/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2026-2041

Wine Enthusiast 96

Aromas of black-skinned fruit, dark spice and sunbaked soil mingle with whiffs of camphor and forest floor on this enticing blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Malvasia Nera. The elegant, structured palate delivers black plum, ripe black cherry, star anise and crushed mint while firm, polished tannins provide support and finesse. It’s well balanced, with bright acidity, while an earthy hint of game gives the finish depth. [01/04/2020]

Anticipated maturity: 2023-2036