About Mazzei

 

The Mazzei family has been producing wines for over 600 years in the Tuscany region. At their estates in Fonterutoli, Belguardo, and Zisola, they aim to create wines that help define the local grape varieties. A deep respect for the land and a devotion to sustainable practices is at the heart of their core values. Their goal is to preserve the land so future generations can carry on the tradition of Tuscan winemaking. Their Belguardo Estate, which is located in the hills between Grosseto and Montiano, is a major force in the winemaking industry of the region. Bought by the Mazzei family in the mid-nineties, this 70-hectare property contains a very unique terroir. The Mazzei family began a vineyard replanting program on the land and use both varietals and clones which are chosen carefully and planted using sustainable methods. Their Zisola Estate in south-east Sicily became the site of the Mazzei family’s winemaking project in 2003. This land is where the Nero d’Avola vine originated.

 

Vineyards

 

In the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli, Belguardo, and Zisola, the Mazzei family practice sustainable farming to ensure the stability of this unique ecosystem. They’ve eliminated the process of chemical topdressing and weeding. They also recycle all production waste including stalks, shoots, olive pomace, and horse manure. This material is turned into organic fertilizer. Their vineyards contain microclimates influenced by the proximity of the ocean. The region is characterized by low humidity and rainfall. Soils contain both Albarese along with sandstone rocks. The medium texture and sandy composition result in healthy water retention and high draining capacity. Resulting wines are highly complex and aromatic.  

 

Wines

 

The 2015 Castello di Fonterutoli contains a mix of 92% Sangiovese, 8% Malvasia Nera, and Colorino grapes. This is a true representation of a Chianti Classico. It was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels and bottled in December of 2017. This wine has a complex structure that displays notes of dried flowers. It has an extremely persistent, rich texture and pairs well with savory dishes including stews, wild game, and aged cheese. This wine will age well over the next 20 years. Next, the 2016 Concerto Toscana IGT is a blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels and finished for four months in concrete tanks. This release was bottled in August of 2018. It has a lush, juicy texture with notes of black cherries and underbrush. Food parings include spicy dishes, stews, and aged cheese. This wine will age well over the next 20 years.

 

The 2017 Azisa Sicilia DOC was made from a blend of 50% Catarratto and 50% Grillo. It was bottled in March of 2018 and displays notes of citrus and flowers. The texture is both fresh and dry, with a distinct minerality. This wine pairs perfectly with pasta and seafood dishes. It’s also great with sardines, anchovies, and grilled vegetables. Finally, the 2016 Achilles Terre Siciliane IGT is composed of 100% Syrah. It was aged for 16 months in French oak barrels and bottled in December of 2017. This Syrah is full-bodied and complex with notes of forest underbrush, black cherries, and leaves. The aftertaste is rich and tannic. Food pairings include game stews, hard cheese, and Porcini mushrooms. The wine will age well over the next 20 years.

 

Meta: The Mazzei family has been making Tuscan wines for over 600 years and still maintain traditional techniques. Learn more about this winery and their estates.