Antinori 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, Badia a Passignano

The most prestigious designation in Chianti Classico is Gran Selezione. This wine is a single vineyard Chianti Classico Riserva that Antinori produces from the vineyard of the same name on their estate property. It's a unique wine with a distinct terroir that shows through vintage after vintage and they have been producing it for many years. It was aged 12 months in French and Hungarian oak barrels. This is the only wine in the Antinori portfolio that bears the Gran Selezione designation. It's also the only wine they make that is 100% Sangiovese.  


Wine Spectator scored it 94 points saying "A lush, round version, featuring milk chocolate hints and cherry, plum, almond and earth flavors. Dense, with dusty tannins. The vibrant acidity keeps all the elements defined on the lingering aftertaste. Best from 2023 through 2037."


The Wine Advocate scored it 94 points saying "Badia a Passignano is one of the last vineyards to mature and one of the first to start, so it always has a very long growing cycle. The spring began with good weather with budbreak coming about ten days early, followed by a cool, early summer and a hot August. The Sangiovese-based 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano shows some real ripeness on the close with more red and purple fruit rather than black fruit characteristics. This is a very traditional expression of the Tuscan grape and the least international of Marchesi Antinori's offerings. It's the kind of classic Sangiovese that belongs on the table next to a pappardelle with your favorite ragù."


Decanter Magazine svored it 95 points saying "Badia a Passignano's 65 hectares sit at 300 metres above sea level on limestone rich clay in the area of San Casciano Val di Pesa. A selection of the best bunches of Sangiovese, the 2016 Gran Selezione is gorgeous, yet discreet rather than flashy. It is also immediately appealing with lovely clarity of red cherry and violets. Savoury hints of iron and stone emerge on the palate. This boasts silky sophisticated tannins, a tactile powdery texture, beautifully integrated oak and vibrant acidity. A elegantly balanced package. Drinking Window 2020 - 2032"


James Suckling scored this 96 points saying "This is a wonderful pure sangiovese with wet earth, mushrooms, pine and cedar with black cherries. Full body. Dense and layered with ripe tannins, yet there’s vivid and energetic acidity. It drives to the end and pulls you in. Top stuff. Drink or hold."