Siepi (2015)

About this wine

The 2015 Siepi from Castello di Fonterutoli is a balanced blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, showcasing the best of both varietals. On the nose, it presents aromas of ripe blackberries and dark cherries, accented by notes of mint and wild herbs. The palate is full-bodied and vibrant, with flavors of dark fruit, a firm tannic structure, and a remarkably long, bright finish that balances richness and freshness. This wine is a testament to the Mazzei family's winemaking heritage, dating back over six centuries, and their innovative spirit in blending Sangiovese and Merlot to create a complex and harmonious expression of the terroir.

About the grape

Sangiovese, a grape deeply rooted in Tuscany, has been cultivated in the region for centuries, forming the backbone of many traditional Italian wines. In the early 1980s, the Mazzei family, owners of the Siepi vineyard since 1435, made the innovative decision to plant Merlot alongside Sangiovese, aiming to create a harmonious blend that balances Sangiovese's acidity and structure with Merlot's richness and softness. This pioneering move led to the production of Siepi, a wine that showcases the synergy between these two varietals, reflecting both tradition and modernity in Tuscan winemaking.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Siepi is a 50-50 blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, combining the elegance of Sangiovese with the richness of Merlot.
• 🏰 The Mazzei family has owned the Siepi vineyard since 1435, making it one of the oldest recorded vineyards in Italy.
• 🏆 The 2015 vintage of Siepi received a 98-point rating from James Suckling, highlighting its exceptional quality.
• 🌳 The Siepi vineyard is situated on a plateau at 260 meters above sea level, surrounded by oak forests, creating a unique microclimate.
• 🛢️ The 2015 Siepi was aged for 18 months in small French oak barrels, with 70% being new, enhancing its complexity and depth.

Palate profile

Producer

Castello di Fonterutoli, owned by the Mazzei family since 1435, is a historic winery located in Castellina in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy. The estate spans 650 hectares, with 110 hectares dedicated to vineyards divided into 114 parcels across seven distinct terroirs, situated at altitudes ranging from 220 to 570 meters above sea level. In 2008, architect Agnese Mazzei designed a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly winery built on three underground levels, utilizing gravity to enhance the winemaking process while preserving grape integrity. The winery is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, producing acclaimed wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the Chianti Classico region.