In 1394, Ser Lapo Mazzei (1350-1412) was working on closing the deal for the sale of six barrels of wine with Francesco Datini, a wealthy merchant of Prato.  Mazzei wrote, “Don’t concern yourself about the cost of the wine, though it be high: its goodness is restorative.” On December 16, 1398, according to the Datini family archives Mazzei introduced the name Chianti in the invoice for those six barrels.

Despite Ser Lapo’s counsel to disregard concern for cost, and although we agree with him about the restorative goodness of a fine Chianti, we resist paying more than $25 for it. (When we get above that price point we start yearning for a Brunello).  Fortunately, Ser Lapo’s ancestors make one of the finest value Chianti Classicos available. The 2006 Fonterutoli Chianti Classico normally retails for around $25 but it was on sale at Kokoman Wine in Pojaque, New Mexico for $17 last week and we’re stocking up.

The name Fonterutoli derives from the Latin “Fons” (Spring or Fountain) and  ”Rutolae” (an ancient Latin clan). It refers to an oasis for travelers between Florence and Siena.

We like our Italian wines to taste Italian.  Although this wine is 5% Merlot,  (90% Sangiovese, 3% Colorino and 2% Malvasia Nera),  this soupçon of French influence, along with the 12 months it spent in French oak, doesn’t distort its Tuscan essence, it just adds a kiss of suppleness to this focused, vibrant and food-friendly vino.  We enjoyed it with linguini and classic red sauce, and each sip cut through every bite with mouth watering precision.

A few years ago we met Francesco Mazzei in Florence and tasted through all their top wines including Castello di Fonterutoli, Belguardo and Siepi.   Mazzei was a gracious and elegant host and we enjoyed every sip of his wines, but this is the first time we are buying one by the case.

Visit Mazzei on line.