Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/818616
14 / the tasting panel / may 2017 THE MESSAGE "It's beautiful when we can show diversity; it's important as a winemaker," shares Federico Cerelli, Head Winemaker for Castello di Gabbiano in Tuscany. "I like to make wines of drinkability but of typicity." C astello di Gabbiano, built in 1124, sits on 360 acres of estate vineyards in the heart of Tuscany. Its long his- tory places Castello di Gabbiano as a forerunner in Chianti Classico, and its evolution and innovation keep it poised at the top. Federico Cerelli joined the esteemed winery in 2011 as Head Winemaker, and he embraces the opportunity to make stylistic choices in regard to crafting superior Tuscan wines. Castello di Gabbiano 2014 Chianti Classico shows fresh red fruit and a softer structure, just as Cerelli intended. With a new fermentation facility which includes gentler processes and cement tanks, the innovative winemaker enjoys crafting an easy-drinking style of Chianti Classico. The 2013 Chianti Classico Riserva delivers a richer expression, with more developed fruit and complementary oxidation, while the 2012 Bellezza Chianti Classico Gran Selezione encapsulates the depth that the best block of the vineyard, the 400-meter elevation, the low yields and the 30 months of aging grants. "The elegance we achieve in the wine is unbelievable," Cerelli smiles. Two Super Tuscan blends fill out the Castello di Gabbiano lineup. The 2010 Alleanza showcases Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from their estate in a luscious, full-bodied and beautifully layered wine. A new wine to the portfolio, 2015 Dark Knight, made its debut in select U.S. markets this spring. The enticing blend combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese for a drinkable, delicious wine at an approachable price-point. National distribution of Dark Knight is anticipated for late summer, with the arrival of the 2016 vintage. —Allyson Gorsuch PHOTO COURTESY OF CASTELLO DI GABBIANO Castello di Gabbiano, built in 1124, sits on 360 acres of estate vineyards in the heart of Tuscany. Drinkability Alongside Typicity