Gran Selezione is a somewhat new classification for Chianti, and rises one step above Riserva categorically. Similar rules apply for production area limits and grape requirements (must be estate grown, and >80% Sangiovese), the bottles require 30 months of total aging, a slightly higher alcohol floor (13%), and at least three months in bottle before release.
While these rules are not too different from Riserva, they do allow for some interesting, estate grown wines all the same. Tenuta di Capraia Effe 55 was one such bottle, and the six year old bottle we opened could just as well spent another decade or so in our cellar!
So whether you enjoy this one now or hold it for later, an impressive wine is in your future.
