The 2010 Chianti Classico Riserva Ser Lapo is named after a Mazzei family ancestor who in 1435 reportedly first used the word “Chianti” to describe the current wine appellation. This is a confidently modern wine that delivers plush berry notes and a healthy dose of oak spice. The mouthfeel shows dark mocha and softly yielding tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. The exciting news from Castello di Fonterutoli is the addition of a new wine, the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, located above “Riserva” under the revised guidelines of the Chianti Classico denomination. Importer: Palm Bay International; www.palmbay.com

The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva Ser Lapo is gorgeous with heavy, dark concentration and beautifully embellished tones of Indian spice and tobacco that add a slightly exotic slant to this all-Italian expression. It is exceedingly soft and velvety with dark cherry and blackberry backed by sophisticated, oak-driven characteristics. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. The exciting news from Castello di Fonterutoli is the addition of a new wine, the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, located above “Riserva” under the revised guidelines of the Chianti Classico denomination. Importer: Palm Bay International; www.palmbay.com

The 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva Ser Lapo is impressive, especially for the year. Dark cherries, licorice, leather and French oak wrap around the palate in this deep, rich wine. The 2008 shows considerable muscle as it powers through to the finish. Sweet, balsamic notes linger in the empty glass. Ser Lapo is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. This is a solid set of new releases from the Mazzei family and long-time consulting oenologist Carlo Ferrini. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642