At a glance

Producer

Castello di Ama

Region

Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Primarily Sangiovese with small percentages of Merlot and Malvasia Nera

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

€45-€70 EUR (approx. $50-$80 USD, premium tier)

Tasting profile

Red cherry, black raspberry, fresh violet, rosemary, iron, and dusty Tuscan earth; vivid acidity and pronounced tannic grip.

Evolution: Over time, expect a shift toward more dried floral, tobacco, cedar, and balsamic notes; tannins mellow and integrate, fruit deepens.

At peak: Mid-peak window (2029-2037) shows harmonious, layered fruit with tertiary spice, leather, and forest complexity.

Structure

Acidity

Vivid, driving Tuscan acidity

Tannins

Firm, chalky and refined

Alcohol

13.5% - 14% (typical for the estate and vintage)

Aging potential

Excellent; structured for 12-18 years of evolution from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2029 to 2037

Optimal window

2026 to 2040

Current status

Early release—youthful but approachable with aeration

Current condition

Bright fruit, assertive structure, tightly coiled tannins; will soften and integrate over time

San Lorenzo demonstrates exceptional cellaring capability thanks to its altitude, single-vineyard sourcing and meticulous selection at Castello di Ama. Best characteristics emerge after 6-10 years, persisting in balance and aromatic complexity up to 15-18 years post-vintage in optimal conditions.

Food pairing

Traditional Tuscan fare (bistecca alla fiorentina, wild boar ragù, aged pecorino), grilled game, roast lamb, or porcini mushroom risotto.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has firm tannins and is still relatively young, which can benefit from aeration to soften the tannins and enhance its aromatic profile.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Conversion to organic viticulture underway, extensive cover cropping, biodiversity encouragement, solar energy utilized for cellars and estate, rainwater capture for vineyard irrigation, recycled glass and lightweight bottles adopted.

Castello di Ama is recognized for ongoing and transparent sustainability efforts, including a major shift towards organic farming, cutting energy and water usage, and reducing packaging weight. Though not yet fully certified organic or biodynamic, the winery operates with a strong environmental ethos and leads sustainability practices in Chianti Classico. Their efforts exceed many peers but final certification status is in process; carbon reduction is actively addressed but international transport remains an unavoidable footprint for global buyers.