Le Corti Zac 2016

Villa Le Corti are doing all kinds of interesting and experimental things at their ancient estate in the heart of Tuscany. This example is still a relatively rare style of wine, since the Gran Selezione designation was only added to the top of the Chianti Classico hierarchy in 2013.

The rules state that Gran Selezione grapes must come from a single vineyard, and the wines aged for 30 months in total. Both factors ensure premium quality (lesser fruit wouldn't survive prolonged ageing, so only the best can go into these wines). 

Judicious use of oak is the key to getting the best out of the style. Here the wine spent 18 months in mostly old oak before maturing for a further year in bottle. All this time brings the different flavour profiles into harmony, so the wine is released in perfect balance.

The 2016 is still youthful, full of plump black cherries, tangy orange and a summer meadow of floral notes. It's full-bodied, with very precise tannins, mellow tobacco/pepper spice and more red fruit on the palate than the nose. The fresh, tasty finish is very enjoyable now, but more a promise of great things to come.

As Gran Selezione becomes more notable style, Zac is definitely worth investing money and a few years in.