2018 Fontodi Chianti Classico Riserva Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo BIO

Everyone has probably heard of Chianti, the most photographed landscape in the world in the heart of Tuscany, in the triangle of Florence, Siena and Arezzo. A region full of art, culture, delicious food and above all wine. There is one grape that reigns in Chianti, and that is Sangiovese, the red superstar in Italy. The best wine is made from this in the Chianti Classico region. And within this region you have the superlative in terms of quality around the village of Panzano. Similar to a Grand Cru area in Burgundy. Giovanni Manetti of Fontodi winery owns the very best vineyards in the Conca d'Oro valley. In a kind of natural amphitheater at an altitude of 450 meters, the grapes ripen optimally here thanks to the excellent microclimate, which ensures a lot of heat and sufficient difference in day and night temperature. The grazing Chianina cows between the vineyards undoubtedly provide a tender piece of meat at the local butcher.

Manetti also grows a little Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and even Pinot Noir, a rarity in these parts. Winemaker Franco Bernabei adds approximately 10% Cabernet Sauvignon to the Sangiovese grapes from the Vigna del Sorbo vineyard for this Classico Riserva. One of the first blends from Chianti, where the grapes from the 35-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon vines are picked 1 to 2 weeks later than the Sangiovese grapes. With their own rules they blend a wine that gives a softer mouthfeel, but also keeps its body. Fermentation in temperature controlled tanks with own yeast for at least 3 weeks. 24 months aging in oak wine barrels, 50% new, 50% old. Very elegant with a romantic nose of sweet cherries, spices, spicy, very concentrated fruit, super elegant, beautifully expressive, rich and intense, nice tannic structure. The term Riserva means that it rests in oak barrels for another year longer than the 'normal' Classico. The result is both power and elegance. Juicy, fruity and spicy, in short, a wine you can't get enough of, so make sure you have enough stock at home.

96+/100 Parker & 96/100 Suckling