Since starting to bottle in 1968, the gorgeous organically-farmed Fontodi estate has become an icon for the modernization of the Chianti Classico region. They helped popularize pure Sangiovese and aging in small French oak barrels, perfecting their elegantly bold, polished, and precise house style. Their calling card Chianti Classico is really like a riserva bottling, and their two Gran Selezioni approach the full-bodied power of Brunello, but with the fresher tones and elegance of Chianti. They identify their famous flagship, Flaccianello, as a "super-Tuscan:" rich and more open-knit, it's a selection of powerfully ripe fruit from across their vineyards. Thanks to their continued work to be even better, their latest wines are simply outstanding!
The estate lies in the heart of Chianti Classico, with vineyards on the ridge of the famous "Conca d'Oro" (golden shell) amphitheater of the Panzano area. The wines here have a tension between their generous structure and the depth and breadth of their dark-red and purple-toned cores: firm, earthy tannins help ground them, while a core of luminous acidity energizes. The aging in small French oak barrels contributes to the darker tones and extra richness in texture, with an infusion of oak spice (cinnamon & incense) and mocha. Perhaps the true magic of these powerhouse wines lies in their broad, but elegantly tapered, finishes, making them a pleasure to drink. They also age gloriously, if that's your style! We suggest letting the top bottlings breathe in the decanter for an hour or two, and partner them with rich, meaty dishes!
Their classic Chianti is a fantastic introduction to the house style, and the character of Sangiovese in the famous Conca d'Oro. It's the lither, more drinkable wine in their lineup, and is perfect for savory pasta dishes. Delicious!
WINE SPECTATOR 94 POINTS - “This red straddles the fruity and savory sides of Sangiovese, revealing cherry and blackberry fruit offset by eucalyptus, juniper and wild rosemary flavors. Lively and fluid, with tension on the complex, minerally aftertaste. Best from 2026 through 2042.”
VINOUS 94 POINTS - "The 2021 Chianti Classico is classic wine from the estate, done in the more restrained style that has become the norm here of late. There's plenty of Panzano richness, but more energy and less heaviness than what was common just a few years ago. Giovanni Manetti and his team have given the Chianti Classico gorgeous refinement. Spice, flowers, mocha and blue fruits linger, all wrapped together by ultra-finessed tannins. The 2021 spent 20-22 months in barrel—65% cask and 35% neutral French oak barriques."
The estate lies in the heart of Chianti Classico, with vineyards on the ridge of the famous "Conca d'Oro" (golden shell) amphitheater of the Panzano area. The wines here have a tension between their generous structure and the depth and breadth of their dark-red and purple-toned cores: firm, earthy tannins help ground them, while a core of luminous acidity energizes. The aging in small French oak barrels contributes to the darker tones and extra richness in texture, with an infusion of oak spice (cinnamon & incense) and mocha. Perhaps the true magic of these powerhouse wines lies in their broad, but elegantly tapered, finishes, making them a pleasure to drink. They also age gloriously, if that's your style! We suggest letting the top bottlings breathe in the decanter for an hour or two, and partner them with rich, meaty dishes!
Their classic Chianti is a fantastic introduction to the house style, and the character of Sangiovese in the famous Conca d'Oro. It's the lither, more drinkable wine in their lineup, and is perfect for savory pasta dishes. Delicious!
WINE SPECTATOR 94 POINTS - “This red straddles the fruity and savory sides of Sangiovese, revealing cherry and blackberry fruit offset by eucalyptus, juniper and wild rosemary flavors. Lively and fluid, with tension on the complex, minerally aftertaste. Best from 2026 through 2042.”
VINOUS 94 POINTS - "The 2021 Chianti Classico is classic wine from the estate, done in the more restrained style that has become the norm here of late. There's plenty of Panzano richness, but more energy and less heaviness than what was common just a few years ago. Giovanni Manetti and his team have given the Chianti Classico gorgeous refinement. Spice, flowers, mocha and blue fruits linger, all wrapped together by ultra-finessed tannins. The 2021 spent 20-22 months in barrel—65% cask and 35% neutral French oak barriques."
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