Siepi is the flagship wine of the Marchesi Mazzei at Castello di Fonterutoli, in Castellina in Chianti, owned by the family since 1435. It takes its name from a historic vineyard already mentioned in fifteenth-century family documents, and since its first vintage in 1992 it has been one of the best-known Super Tuscans of Chianti Classico.
It is an equal blend of Sangiovese and Merlot from a single vineyard at about 260 metres, facing south and south-west, on alberese and limestone soils with clay. The wine matures for 18 months in French barriques, largely new, and a few months in concrete before bottling.
Twelve years after the harvest, the 2013 has entered a more evolved phase: red and black fruit is joined by spice, tobacco, leather and forest floor, supported by now-polished tannins and the freshness of Sangiovese. The producer puts its ageing potential at over twenty years. With roasts, game and aged cheeses.
At a glance: Merlot 50%, Sangiovese 50% · 0.75 l · Mazzei, Castellina in Chianti (SI)

