The first Super-Tuscans were created in the 1970s by Chianti Classico producers who rejected government mandates that determined which grapes were required in their wine, especially with grapes like Trebbiano and Malvasia. The Super-Tuscans were also treated differently from Chianti, aged in small French barriques rather than large Slavonian oak casks. Because the Super-Tuscans did not follow the DOC regulations, they were entitled only to the lowest official designation of the time: Vino da tavola. It wasn’t until 1994 that government recognized the high quality of Super-Tuscans and gave the wine it’s own category – IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica). Volpaia first released Coltassala in 1980 as a Super-Tuscan. The Chianti Classico appellation followed suit, closing the quality gap between Chianti Classico and Super-Tuscans. Now Coltassala is a Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, even though it’s the same Super-Tuscan wine of 1980.

“A precise, silky and juicy gran selezione with volume and brightness. Aromas of forest berries, wild strawberries, warm herbs and baking spices dominate on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins and fresh acidity. Vivid and succulent with crunchy berry character. Lively and agile with a harmonious structure and a flavorful; vibrant and long finish. Drink or hold.”
96 points, James Suckling, July 2024

“The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala is one of the finest wines I have tasted from Volpaia. This ample, resonant Gran Selezione offers notable fruit intensity and exceptional balance. Soft contours and a kiss of French oak lend a contemporary touch. All the elements are so nicely balanced.”
95 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, June 2024

“The organic Volpaia 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Radda Coltassala is layered and fun aromatically with bright cherry fruit and powdery aromas that recall crushed stone or chalk. Indeed, the mineral identity in this wine is nicely defined. This blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Mammolo is quite generous in terms of bouquet but a little less so in terms of texture. There is nice freshness, and this Gran Selezione from Radda has a medium-long finish. There’s even a hint of white peppercorn on the close. This is a 10,000-bottle release.”
94+ points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate, July 2024