Castello Di Ama Gran Selezione, San Lorenzo Recipe

1. Chill & ambient temp

Remove the bottle from the refrigerator if it was stored cold and allow it to rest upright at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. Castello di Ama Gran Selezione (a Chianti Classico Gran Selezione) is best served slightly below room temperature, around 16–18°C (60–65°F).

2. Select glassware

Choose large-bowled red wine glasses (Bordeaux style) to concentrate aromas and allow the wine to breathe in the glass. Ensure glasses are clean and free of detergent residue.

3. Optional decanting

If the bottle is relatively young (under 10 years) or you want to open its aromatics, decant for 45–90 minutes before serving. Slowly pour the wine into a decanter in a steady stream. If the bottle is older (10+ years), carefully decant to separate sediment; stop when you see sediment approaching the neck.

4. Pouring

Hold the glass by the stem and pour about 120–150 ml (4–5 oz) per glass for tasting. Fill only to the widest part of the bowl so aromas can develop above the wine.

5. Sight

Tilt the glass against a white background to observe color and clarity: expect a deep ruby to garnet core with possible brick rim depending on age.

6. Swirl & nose

Gently swirl the wine to release aromas. Take several short sniffs: look for aromas of red and black cherry, leather, dried herbs, spice, and subtle oak/vanillin notes typical of Gran Selezione from San Lorenzo.

7. Taste

Take a modest sip, let it coat the palate, and note structure (acidity, tannin, body) and flavors—ripe red fruit, savory herbs, earth, and mature tertiary notes if aged. Allow the wine to finish and note the length and balance.

8. Serve with accompaniments

Offer slices of bread and water between sips to cleanse the palate. Present cheese and salumi alongside to enjoy pairings: the wine’s acidity and tannin will complement aged cheese and cured meats. Refill glasses as appropriate.

9. Recork the bottle (use original cork or wine stopper) and store upright in a cool place or refrigerator. Consume within 2–4 days for best quality. If decanted, transfer leftover wine back to a bottle and refrigerate; allow to warm slightly before serving again.