2021 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 especially wine. There is one grape that dominates in Chianti, and that is the 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. Comparable to a Grand Cru area in Burgundy. Giovanni Manetti of the 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 warmth and sufficient difference in day and night temperature. The grazing Chianina cows between the vineyards undoubtedly ensure 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 about 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 knows how to keep its body. Fermentation in temperature controlled tanks with their own yeast for at least 3 weeks. 24 months maturation 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, beautiful tannin structure. The term Riserva means that it rests in oak barrels for a year longer than the 'regular' Classico. The result is both power and elegance. Juicy, fruity and spicy, in short, a wine that you will not get tired of quickly, so stock up. 98+/100 Parker