Fontodi

An organic top oil from the heart of the Chianti Classico region. The strong, intensely fruity oil shows notes of rocket and radish and is well suited for making hearty Mediterranean hors d'oeuvres or for refining meat and vegetable dishes. SUPERIORE.DE

olive varieties: 80% Correggiolo, 10% Moraiolo, 10% andere

Very appetising Sauvignon Blanc from Tuscany. Light straw yellow, beautiful fragrance with aromas of light berries, mint, camomile and wild flowers. Round, harmonious and fresh taste, vibrant and aromatic. Only 8,000 bottles were produced. SUPERIORE.DE

"From Sauvignon Blanc grapes (and some Trebbiano) from the Conca d'Oro of Panzano, fermented and matured for six months in steel, wood and terracotta: flattering mint and elderflower nose; the attack complex, also mineral-salty nuances, lots of fruit and finesse until the finish." Vinum

"The 2021 Meriggio, 90% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Trebbiano, is bright and full of energy, naturally with Sauvignon aromas and flavors driving the balance." Vinous

Filetta di Lamole comes from selected Lamole vineyards of the Manetti family at an altitude of 600 metres. A multi-layered, elegant Chianti Classico that nuances its aromas and has a fascinating structure. Ruby red with light reflections. Multi-layered bouquet of cherry, then some tarry notes, violets and forest flowers. In this profound wine, one recognises Fontodi's signature, and yet it is different because it is more subtle and restrained in its use of available strengths. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Filetta di Lamole is elegant, delicate and bright. Fine-grained tannins envelop a core of bright raspberry fruit, cedar, tobacco and anise. Medium-bodied and aromatic, Filetta di Lamole is a top class wine from this site." Vinous

"The 2020 slowly reveals rose, lilac and lavender against a backdrop of ripe redcurrants. Beautifully structured with fine tannins; the finish is long and juicy." Decanter

"With fruit from a little stretch of vineyard rows up in the cool and forested Lamole area, the organic Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico Filetta di Lamole shows wild raspberry and cherry with background tones of peat moss, almond and fragrant blue flower such as lilac and violet. The wine is lean-bodied and very vibrant in personality." Wine Advocate

"Fascinating aromas of cherry, cedar, dried flowers and sandalwood follow through to a medium body with fine-grained tannins and an exciting and refined finish. A year or two more of bottle age will make it even better, but it's lovely now." James Suckling

Strong ruby red. Pinot Nero Case Via exudes a varietal bouquet of wild berries and pipe tobacco, which combines harmoniously with the barrel spice. The soft, characterful taste is based on the strength of the tannin and the excellent aroma structure of the Pinot Pinot Noir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark cherry, blackberry, earth and oak spice aromas and flavors grace this supple red, which is bright and harmonious, with a lingering, fruity aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Pinot Nero Case Via is perfumed, racy expressive, especially on the palate, where the fruit is wonderfully alive. The 2018 was fermented in terra cotta and then aged in a combination of both amphora and oak." Vinous

"Mulberry, dark plum, smoky, clay and earthy notes on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with chewy tannins. Juicy with a chalky texture and lively acidity. Pure and structured with a flavorful finish." James Suckling

Strong dark ruby. Pepper and spice accents, aromas of ripe red and dark fruits and a slightly animal note characterise the precise aroma. The perfect balance between tannin, silky elements and the acidity guarantee a characterful and pithy taste. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with a drop of violet. In the nose still considerably reductive, needs a lot of time to come out of the glass, then notes of ripe plums and violets, delicate ink. On the palate very full-bodied, with dark fruit and lots of melting, spreads out richly, currently still very young, needs time." Falstaff

"The 2018 Syrah Case Via is ample and generous in the glass. Super-ripe blackberry, chocolate, spice, leather and cloves fill out the layers effortlessly. This deep, fleshy Syrah has much to offer. The 2018 was done with fully destemmed fruit and spent 18 months in French oak, 30% new." Vinous

"With a mere 3,000 bottles made, the organic Fontodi 2018 Syrah Case Via is ripe, concentrated and extremely savory in terms of its aromas. This vintage reveals loads of bacon fat and musky leather that you often get with Syrah in the warmest growing seasons. Chewing tobacco, riding boots, potting soil and dark fruit all rise heavily from the bouquet. There are two sides to the mouthfeel: Although it is moderate in length, the wine shows lots of soft texture on the mid-palate and closes quickly with a 15% alcohol content." Wine Advocate

"Black fruit, soy sauce, spices and dried herbs on the nose. It’s full-bodied with firm tannins. Structured and racy. Juicy and smoky with a flavorful, tannic finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink in 2024 when the tannins will have softened slightly." James Suckling

Strong dark ruby. Pepper and spice accents, aromas of ripe red and dark fruits and a slightly animal note characterise the precise aroma. The perfect balance between tannin, silky elements and the acidity guarantee a characterful and pithy taste. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted bouquet on notes of rose hips, cherries, pepper and blossoms; the attack is full-bodied, invigorating acidity, racy tannins, elegant course with mouth-filling finish, the wood perfectly integrated. With mushroom dishes." Vinum

"Dark ruby red with a drop of violet. In the nose of juicy cherries, juicy plums, plus a hint of iron, in the aftertaste noble pepper and slightly bacony tones. Spicy on the palate, with grippy tannin and juicy fruit." Falstaff

"The 2019 Syrah Case Via is powerful, inky and expressive. A blast of inky dark fruit, espresso, licorice, cloves, game and leather infuses the 2019 with notable depth. This virile, somber Syrah has plenty to offer." Vinous

"Intense, exhibiting blackberry, plum, boysenberry and black pepper aromas and flavors. Firm and needs time to resolve the oak, yet this is fresh and persists on the mineral- and spice-tinged finish." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of blackberries, black tobacco and slate follow through to a medium body with firm tannins and a graphite note in the finish." James Suckling

Strong ruby red. Pinot Nero Case Via exudes a varietal bouquet of wild berries and pipe tobacco, which combines harmoniously with the barrel spice. The soft, characterful taste is based on the strength of the tannin and the excellent aroma structure of the Pinot Pinot Noir. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Pinot Nero Case Via is bold, juicy and super-expressive. Juicy red cherry, plum, spice, rose petal and sweet pipe tobacco are nicely pushed forward. Succulent and inviting, the 2019 has so much to offer." Vinous

Giovanni Manetti's Vin Santo del Chianti Classico consists of 50% Malvasia and 50% Sangiovese and was aged for 84 months in small oak barrels. The wine is absolutely stunning - from start to finish.

It shows bright amber reflections alternating with the same dark brown hue as a polished chestnut shell. Its thick, viscous consistency glides over the smooth surfaces of the glass with the soft, slow movements of maple syrup. The bouquet leaves notes of honey, brown sugar, roasted nuts, rum cake, vanilla, white truffle, candied apricots and moist pipe tobacco firmly etched in the memory. You don't drink this wine. Instead, you slurp it down and savour every last drop. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is an extremely precious wine, with only 1,000 375-milliliter bottles made. The Fontodi 2010 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico is a wine of rare beauty and intensity. I am a huge fan of Vin Santo and tend to rate these Tuscan dessert wines very highly. I just love the wine's storied history and the deep ties it shares with Tuscan culture and tradition. This example is syrupy and rich with glycerin. The blend is equal parts Sangiovese and Malvasia, and there is a hint of ruby polish inside its amber hues, just like you might see on the husk of a polished chestnut. The bouquet offers toasted spice and candied fruit with maple syrup, brown sugar and crème brûlée. Ultimately, the wine is almost more savory than it is sweet and fruity. Fresh acidity adds brightness. This little bottle from Tuscany, much like the others made by the most passionate producers, is a little work of art." Wine Advocate

Vigna del Sorbo pleases at first sight with its full, strong ruby red. It takes over the nose with a clear, intense fruitiness, to which herbaceous notes add, before the wide, consistent flavour and the straightforward, flawless final set in. An excellent harmony between structure and elegance and for years one of the greatest Gran Selezione in Chianti Classico. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, deep ruby. Rich and fleshy nose, smells of blackberry and ripe plum, some cinnamon in the background. Meaty and gripping also on the palate, lots of dark berry fruit, opens with present, dense tannin." Falstaff

"The Fontodi 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is expressive, dark and thickly concentrated. I received my samples early and found that this wine was a little shy or slow to open in this early phase. If given extra time, the bouquet warms up to dark fruit, plum, rum cake and dried violet. I came back to the wine about two hours later and discovered a pretty note of crushed aspirin or carbon, with more crushed flower. The oak adds sweet spice and scorched earth, but these too will integrate with time." Wine Advocate

"Powerful, tight red with currant and plum character. Hints of new wood and bark. Full-bodied with dark berries and hints of dark chocolate, as well as other dark fruit. Flavorful finish. Solid. Needs time to open." James Suckling

"The summer was dry and warm without extreme heat and leading up to harvest, the nights cooled down substantially. His Vigna del Sorbo is one of the top wines among a robust set of stellar offerings from this outstanding vintage. It is remarkable for the freshness and purity that rises above the concentration and density. A mix of smoke, liquorice , black cherry and thyme emerges slowly. Even in their commanding grip, the tannins are perfectly polished and sophisticated. Full, packed with fruit but with incredible agility and lip-smacking tanginess, this lingers with fragrant earth, tobacco and crushed stone. For the long-haul." Decanter

"The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a dense, packed wine. It is also surprisingly, almost shockingly backward. That is probably a good thing for its long-term aging prospects. Readers hoping to get an early glimpse into the 2017 before it shuts down may have a hard time doing that, as today acids and tannin dominate. I expect the 2017 will be stellar in another 4-5 years." Vinous

Chianti Classico by Giovanni Manetti offers a deep, densely woven and yet still very youthful bouquet of dark and red berries and fine spicy notes. The dry, cherry flavour with long-lasting impressions, well extracted tannin and the Sangiovese-typical acidity show clearly recognisable terroir character. Very clear, straightforward, long, always fresh and juicy, with excellent power and balance. SUPERIORE.DE

"A classic, on the palate it is polished, dense, velvety, with harmonious acidity and spicy again. All in all, the development remains to be seen." Weinwisser

"A certified organic wine, the Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico shows dark fruit and blackberry with earthy sensations of crushed stone that reflect the schistous soils found in this area of the appellation." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 version has all the ripe dark fruit and assertive tannins that balance so well. Grilled meat, baked earth and thyme flirt with black plum. The youthful juiciness has the energy to carry this wine over the next eight or more years. It finishes with its characteristic bitter liquorice note." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico 2020 offers remarkable tension to balance the natural richness that is so typical of this wine. There is plenty of Panzano intensity, but less opulence than has been the norm in the past. The switch to a larger oak format and bottling four months earlier contribute to this impression. Dark red cherry, leather, spices, rose petals, dried herbs and wild flowers grace this nuanced Chianti Classico. It will be interesting to see in which direction this bottling develops. I wouldn't open it too young." Vinous

"Subtle aromas of sliced strawberries and cherries with some orange peel follow through to a medium body with juicy tannins and a bright and tangy finish. This wine has wonderful energy. So good now." James Suckling

The Vigna del Sorbo site is located directly in front of the winery. The southwest-facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been designated Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red rays. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any explorer's mind will be enraptured as it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, currants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar level of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-weight structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: There is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear fruit nose, balsamic notes too; polished texture, fine-grained tannins, then a lingering, layered final on notes of cherries, lilac and black pepper. Pleases with its polish." Vinum

"Sparkling, intense ruby with a dark core. Opens with notes of leather and liquorice, some cocoa, then lots of elderberry and blackberry, spicy macchia herbs in the background. Gripping and dense in attack and course, very nicely worked out fruit, juicy, gripping tannin with fine melting." Falstaff

"Earthy scents on the nose, with notes of smoke, toast, biscuit and creamy blueberry fruit. It is robust on the palate, with smooth ripe tannins still showing up, very fresh with a well-integrated alcohol." Decanter

"There are some appealing elements of cherry and strawberry in this red, backed by a dense matrix of assertive tannins. Though astringent, this manages to find its way back to an equilibrium on the lingering mineral and savory aftertaste. Be patient." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful blue fruit with mahogany and violets. Full-bodied with creamy, polished tannins that show a beautiful polished and texture. So drinkable already." James Suckling

"The Fontodi 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is simply gorgeous now and we should expect better things to come as the wine continues its bottle evolution. This organic, single-vineyard expression delivers impeccable balance and beautiful intensity throughout. The wine sports a developed fruit side that contrasts nicely against the spice and tobacco-like tones. The 2018 vintage can sometimes be hard to read. For example, this wine offers sharp acidity but it also sees a 15% alcohol content plus lots of enduring sweetness and ripeness. The tannins are especially supple and sweet." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is quite possibly the most elegant, refined version of this wine I have ever tasted. It does not offer the immediacy or impact of either the 2015 or 2016, but, instead, impresses with its elegance, persistence and total class. Bright floral and spice notes add perfume to a core of red-toned fruit. The 2018 represents another move towards greater finesse at Fontodi." Vinous

"As always, the excellent and elegant Sangiovese in purity from Fontodi, with an extra gear thanks to a blessed vintage. The nose is fresh, with aromas of red cherries, officinal scents and citron thyme. The mouthfeel has a nice acidic touch, salty tannins, compactness and sharpness. Persistent." Luca Gardini

The Vigna del Sorbo site is located directly in front of the winery. The southwest-facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been designated Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red rays. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any explorer's mind will be enraptured as it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, currants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar level of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-weight structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: There is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sounds promising of raspberries and flowers, also subtle pepper notes; pithy on the palate, the acidity perfectly integrated, lots of juice, power, buxom tannins, character and a wonderful spicy final on notes of ripe cherries and sandalwood." Vinum

"Dark ruby red with a gently lightening rim. In the nose emphatically spicy aromas of ripe forest berries, rich Amarena cherries and clear pepper spice, in the aftertaste of leather. On the palate tightly meshed and pithy, spreads out grippingly, in addition very juicy, in the undertone also finely salty, powerful and long with a lot of character, still needs some bottle maturity." Falstaff

"Mid to deep ruby. Savoury, minerally, elegant and a little understated on the nose. Deep succulent cherry fruit supported by the right dose of chewy tannins. Very long. Concentrated, tangy and composed all at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"This is elegant, delivering floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavors. A touch of earth peeks through as this plays out gracefully on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a potent, virile wine endowed with tremendous depth and equally imposing tannins. A blast of dark fruit, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spice races out of the glass. Large-scaled tannins and hints of rusticity suggest the 2019 won’t be one of the most finessed Sorbos, but it is a fine effort for the year." Vinous

"At an elevation of 400 metres, Vigna del Sorbo boasts Chianti Classico’s classic Galestro soil. The warm southwest-facing vineyard typically yields a powerful, intense wine in need of ageing. The 2019 demonstrates all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site but it comes into harmony quickly, revealing its balance and precision. Wood-driven top notes of smoke and vanilla meld into pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh are wrapped in long, layered chalky tannins. Across the palate there's an energetic beam of unwavering acidity, giving the wine a linear feel. The finish reverberates with fennel and crushed stone." Decanter

"This iconic wine has all new energy, as it is now part of an exciting set of potential Gran Selezione wines made at Fontodi. Two new portfolio additions (Pastrolo from cool climate Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine of course benefits from many years of experience, and the Vigna del Sorbo identity is well established. But soil geeks will absolutely enjoy comparing Vigna del Sorbo from schistous galestro soils to the limestone alternative found in Terrazze San Leonlino. I tend to lean toward Vigna del Sorbo thanks to those etched mineral notes of pencil shaving and iron ore that I find so appealing. Those dusty notes are amply rounded off by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spice. Rising alcohol can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the winey team is leaving taller growth on the vines in the summer to cast shade and taking other active measures to combat this issue." Wine Advocate

The years of the COVID 19 pandemic were particularly fruitful for Giovanni Manetti, you could call them an epiphany. He had time to think and walked through his vineyards at Conca d'Oro in Panzano in Chianti, an amphitheatre of postcard-ripe vines, and decided it was time to expand his portfolio. In particular, he was looking for a way to better articulate the concept of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, which is essentially a perfect vehicle for a Grand Cru winemaking philosophy. Its existing Chianti Classico Gran Selezione "Vigna del Sorbo" is a flagship for this highest category of the appellation, but unfortunately it represents only one vineyard site. The fruit comes from an area with a higher proportion of slaty galestro for dark fruit, etched mineral notes and pencil shavings. Now this wine can be seen in context.

This is how the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione "Terrazze San Leonlino" was born It comes from a site in Panzano, not too far from "Vigna del Sorbo". However, this small parcel near the country chapel of San Leonlino is characterised by calcareous Alberese, which produces fresh wines with a less dark character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant ruby red. In the nose very spicy, after leather and pepper, also reminding of wet stone, opens on ripe dark berries in the back, aftertaste of blood. Stretches out with great freshness and compact tannin, immediately present, balanced and with class, in the finish pithy and with firm pressure." Falstaff

"Impressive aromas of blackberries and peppers with some toffee. Full-bodied, round, soft and juicy. Heavy, not drinking now, but better in two or three years." James Suckling

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leonlino is made from organic fruit from a parcel near the small chapel of the same name in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano. The best fruit from 15-year-old vines was set aside to make this 5,000-bottle first release. The famous Vigna del Sorbo is not far away, but compared to the wine made there, the Terrazze San Leonlino is sharper, more focused and offers a leaner fruit weight. The bouquet moves towards wild roses and Mediterranean herbs, adding more vertical pressure to the flavours. The tannins are silky and polished." Wine Advocate

"The brand new Terrazze San Leolino Gran Selezione from Fontodi is a real eye-catcher. San Leolino was already recognised as a cru site 200 years ago. The recently renewed terraces are located at 450 metres above sea level in Panzano, but unlike Fontodi's Vigna del Sorbo, which is dominated by Galestro, the soil here is calcareous Alberese. Although it was bottled only recently, it already shows its earthy, stony and mineral aromas. On the palate, it is elegant and deep, with decisive flavours of roses, red cherries and long-chained, enveloping tannins that finish with a tangy saltiness. It is still very closed, but promising." Decanter

Rich, deep dark ruby red. The bouquet opens with dark cherries, blue flowers and earth. The tannins are tight, almost crisp, and the wine offers deep provenance and persistence carried by the distinct acidity. This depth is what stands out the most. Since 2016, a small part of it has been aged in clay amphorae, which has resulted in an even more elegant and refined Flaccianello. As always, it deserves a top place among the single-varietal Sangiovese of central Tuscany and connoisseurs give it time to develop further. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exudes a bouquet of black cherries, leather, undergrowth, but also fine spicy aromas; concentrated texture, still young but perfectly built, velvety tannins, the acidity provides the verve, extremely pleasing opulent-fruity finish. Great Sangiovese that should still mature." Vinum

"Bright ruby red. In the nose delicate cranberry, some cherry and noble spice, holds back altogether. Tightly and densely woven on the palate, at the same time very polished, very juicy in the course, very long and punchy on the final, ends on slightly earthy notes, will age excellently." Falstaff

"This smooth red is highlighted by macerated black cherry, blackberry and oak spice flavors. Harmonious, with a kick of refined tannins on the long finish. A polished style with the structure to age." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another potent wine from Fontodi in this vintage. That said, it has more than enough mid-palate heft and overall intensity to balance its equally imposing tannins. Black cherry, mocha, licorice, lavender, spice and tobacco fill out the layers. The 2019 needs time to integrate its oak and for the imposing tannins to soften." Vinous

"Blackberry, black-cherry, bark and ink aromas follow through to a full body with tight, integrated tannins and a solid core of fruit at the same time. A little hard and tight now. From organically grown grapes. Needs time to open. Try after 2025." James Suckling

"The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another stunning wine that sums up the character of the vintage and reflects the sun-drenched beauty of its quintessentially Tuscan surroundings. I tasted this wine next to the 100-point 2016 vintage for friendly comparison, and perhaps the main difference is that the tannins are finer and more accessible in this bottle. It offers rich concentration and layers of dark fruit that wrap thickly over the senses. Tannin management is an active pursuit. Wine Advocate

The Vigna del Sorbo site is located directly in front of the winery. The southwest-facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been designated Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red rays. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any explorer's mind will be enraptured as it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, currants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar level of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-weight structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: There is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sounds promising of raspberries and flowers, also subtle pepper notes; pithy on the palate, the acidity perfectly integrated, lots of juice, power, buxom tannins, character and a wonderful spicy final on notes of ripe cherries and sandalwood." Vinum

"Dark ruby red with a gently brightening rim. In the nose emphatically spicy aromas of ripe forest berries, rich Amarena cherries and clear pepper spice, in the aftertaste of leather. On the palate tightly meshed and pithy, spreads out grippingly, in addition very juicy, in the undertone also finely salty, powerful and long with a lot of character, still needs some bottle maturity." Falstaff

"Mid to deep ruby. Savoury, minerally, elegant and a little understated on the nose. Deep succulent cherry fruit supported by the right dose of chewy tannins. Very long. Concentrated, tangy and composed all at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"This is elegant, delivering floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavors. A touch of earth peeks through as this plays out gracefully on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a potent, virile wine endowed with tremendous depth and equally imposing tannins. A blast of dark fruit, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spice races out of the glass. Large-scaled tannins and hints of rusticity suggest the 2019 won’t be one of the most finessed Sorbos, but it is a fine effort for the year." Vinous

"At an elevation of 400 metres, Vigna del Sorbo boasts Chianti Classico’s classic Galestro soil. The warm southwest-facing vineyard typically yields a powerful, intense wine in need of ageing. The 2019 demonstrates all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site but it comes into harmony quickly, revealing its balance and precision. Wood-driven top notes of smoke and vanilla meld into pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh are wrapped in long, layered chalky tannins. Across the palate there's an energetic beam of unwavering acidity, giving the wine a linear feel. The finish reverberates with fennel and crushed stone." Decanter

"This iconic wine has all new energy, as it is now part of an exciting set of potential Gran Selezione wines made at Fontodi. Two new portfolio additions (Pastrolo from cool climate Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine of course benefits from many years of experience, and the Vigna del Sorbo identity is well established. But soil geeks will absolutely enjoy comparing Vigna del Sorbo from schistous galestro soils to the limestone alternative found in Terrazze San Leonlino. I tend to lean toward Vigna del Sorbo thanks to those etched mineral notes of pencil shaving and iron ore that I find so appealing. Those dusty notes are amply rounded off by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spice. Rising alcohol can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the winey team is leaving taller growth on the vines in the summer to cast shade and taking other active measures to combat this issue." Wine Advocate

Rich, deep dark ruby red. The bouquet opens with dark cherries, blue flowers and earth. The tannins are tight, almost crisp, and the wine offers deep provenance and persistence carried by the distinct acidity. This depth is what stands out the most. Since 2016, a small part of it has been aged in clay amphorae, which has resulted in an even more elegant and refined Flaccianello. As always, it deserves a top place among the single-varietal Sangiovese of central Tuscany and connoisseurs give it time to develop further. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exudes a bouquet of black cherries, leather, undergrowth, but also fine spicy aromas; concentrated texture, still young but perfectly built, velvety tannins, the acidity provides the verve, extremely pleasing opulent-fruity finish. Great Sangiovese that should still mature." Vinum

"Bright ruby red. In the nose delicate cranberry, some cherry and noble spice, holds back altogether. Tightly and densely woven on the palate, at the same time very polished, very juicy in the course, very long and punchy on the final, ends on slightly earthy notes, will age excellently." Falstaff

"This smooth red is highlighted by macerated black cherry, blackberry and oak spice flavors. Harmonious, with a kick of refined tannins on the long finish. A polished style with the structure to age." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another potent wine from Fontodi in this vintage. That said, it has more than enough mid-palate heft and overall intensity to balance its equally imposing tannins. Black cherry, mocha, licorice, lavender, spice and tobacco fill out the layers. The 2019 needs time to integrate its oak and for the imposing tannins to soften." Vinous

"Blackberry, black-cherry, bark and ink aromas follow through to a full body with tight, integrated tannins and a solid core of fruit at the same time. A little hard and tight now. From organically grown grapes. Needs time to open. Try after 2025." James Suckling

"The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another stunning wine that sums up the character of the vintage and reflects the sun-drenched beauty of its quintessentially Tuscan surroundings. I tasted this wine next to the 100-point 2016 vintage for friendly comparison, and perhaps the main difference is that the tannins are finer and more accessible in this bottle. It offers rich concentration and layers of dark fruit that wrap thickly over the senses. Tannin management is an active pursuit. Wine Advocate

The Vigna del Sorbo site is located directly in front of the winery. The southwest-facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been designated Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red rays. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any explorer's mind will be enraptured as it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, currants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar level of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-weight structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: There is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sounds promising of raspberries and flowers, also subtle pepper notes; pithy on the palate, the acidity perfectly integrated, lots of juice, power, buxom tannins, character and a wonderful spicy final on notes of ripe cherries and sandalwood." Vinum

"Dark ruby red with a gently brightening rim. In the nose emphatically spicy aromas of ripe forest berries, rich Amarena cherries and clear pepper spice, in the aftertaste of leather. On the palate tightly meshed and pithy, spreads out grippingly, in addition very juicy, in the undertone also finely salty, powerful and long with a lot of character, still needs some bottle maturity." Falstaff

"Mid to deep ruby. Savoury, minerally, elegant and a little understated on the nose. Deep succulent cherry fruit supported by the right dose of chewy tannins. Very long. Concentrated, tangy and composed all at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"This is elegant, delivering floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavors. A touch of earth peeks through as this plays out gracefully on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a potent, virile wine endowed with tremendous depth and equally imposing tannins. A blast of dark fruit, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spice races out of the glass. Large-scaled tannins and hints of rusticity suggest the 2019 won’t be one of the most finessed Sorbos, but it is a fine effort for the year." Vinous

"At an elevation of 400 metres, Vigna del Sorbo boasts Chianti Classico’s classic Galestro soil. The warm southwest-facing vineyard typically yields a powerful, intense wine in need of ageing. The 2019 demonstrates all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site but it comes into harmony quickly, revealing its balance and precision. Wood-driven top notes of smoke and vanilla meld into pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh are wrapped in long, layered chalky tannins. Across the palate there's an energetic beam of unwavering acidity, giving the wine a linear feel. The finish reverberates with fennel and crushed stone." Decanter

"This iconic wine has all new energy, as it is now part of an exciting set of potential Gran Selezione wines made at Fontodi. Two new portfolio additions (Pastrolo from cool climate Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine of course benefits from many years of experience, and the Vigna del Sorbo identity is well established. But soil geeks will absolutely enjoy comparing Vigna del Sorbo from schistous galestro soils to the limestone alternative found in Terrazze San Leonlino. I tend to lean toward Vigna del Sorbo thanks to those etched mineral notes of pencil shaving and iron ore that I find so appealing. Those dusty notes are amply rounded off by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spice. Rising alcohol can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the winey team is leaving taller growth on the vines in the summer to cast shade and taking other active measures to combat this issue." Wine Advocate

Rich, deep dark ruby red. The bouquet opens with dark cherries, blue flowers and earth. The tannins are tight, almost crisp, and the wine offers deep provenance and persistence carried by the distinct acidity. This depth is what stands out the most. Since 2016, a small part of it has been aged in clay amphorae, which has resulted in an even more elegant and refined Flaccianello. As always, it deserves a top place among the single-varietal Sangiovese of central Tuscany and connoisseurs give it time to develop further. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exudes a bouquet of black cherries, leather, undergrowth, but also fine spicy aromas; concentrated texture, still young but perfectly built, velvety tannins, the acidity provides the verve, extremely pleasing opulent-fruity finish. Great Sangiovese that should still mature." Vinum

"Bright ruby red. In the nose delicate cranberry, some cherry and noble spice, holds back altogether. Tightly and densely woven on the palate, at the same time very polished, very juicy in the course, very long and punchy on the final, ends on slightly earthy notes, will age excellently." Falstaff

"This smooth red is highlighted by macerated black cherry, blackberry and oak spice flavors. Harmonious, with a kick of refined tannins on the long finish. A polished style with the structure to age." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another potent wine from Fontodi in this vintage. That said, it has more than enough mid-palate heft and overall intensity to balance its equally imposing tannins. Black cherry, mocha, licorice, lavender, spice and tobacco fill out the layers. The 2019 needs time to integrate its oak and for the imposing tannins to soften." Vinous

"Blackberry, black-cherry, bark and ink aromas follow through to a full body with tight, integrated tannins and a solid core of fruit at the same time. A little hard and tight now. From organically grown grapes. Needs time to open. Try after 2025." James Suckling

"The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another stunning wine that sums up the character of the vintage and reflects the sun-drenched beauty of its quintessentially Tuscan surroundings. I tasted this wine next to the 100-point 2016 vintage for friendly comparison, and perhaps the main difference is that the tannins are finer and more accessible in this bottle. It offers rich concentration and layers of dark fruit that wrap thickly over the senses. Tannin management is an active pursuit. Wine Advocate