96pts James Suckling

This is a wonderfully crafted Chianti Classico with very finely textured, silky tannins, bright fruit and crisp acidity. It’s medium-bodied and goes on for minutes at the end. From organically grown grapes. Very attractive now, but much better in two or three years and beyond.

96pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Now showing the Panzano UGA on the front label, the Fontodi 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Panzano Terrazze San Leonlino (made with certified organic fruit) is a delightful wine and a relatively new addition to a portfolio that excels in a classic vintage such as 2021. Taking full advantage of new regulations that give identity to appellation subzones (or UGAs), the wine exudes the depth, richness and sunshine that Panzano fruit is known for. The bouquet is stitched together with generous black fruit, pencil shaving and light spice, but the wine ultimately stands apart for its threefold balance of fruit versus acidity versus oak spice.

96pts Vinous

The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leolino is another highlight in this range from Fontodi. It's a huge step up from the 2020. Red cherry, iron, spice, leather, licorice, crushed rocks and herbs make a strong first impression. Bright acids, the result of elevation and a year with wide diurnal swings, yielded a Gran Selezione of stunning elegance, complexity and finesse. The 2021 spent 14-15 months in barrique (25% new) followed by 7-8 months in cask. The San Leolino is one of the newer wines in the Fontodi range. The 2021 suggests it could be one of the new flagships here.

95pts Wine Spectator

Offering cherry, pomegranate, floral, iron and resin flavors, this bright, elegant red tightens up on the finish for now yet remains balanced and silky, lingering nicely. Give this six months to a year to open. Best from 2026 through 2042. 600 cases made, 200 cases imported.

95pts Wine Enthusiast

Offering cherry, pomegranate, floral, iron and resin flavors, this bright, elegant red tightens up on the finish for now yet remains balanced and silky, lingering nicely. Give this six months to a year to open. Best from 2026 through 2042. 600 cases made, 200 cases imported.

About the Winery

Since 1968, Fontodi has been owned by the Manetti family, who for centuries have been dedicated to another quintessential Chianti tradition: the production of its renowned terracotta. Reflecting this strong connection to the region and a passion for quality, the company has successfully focused on increasingly meticulous vineyard management and a deeper understanding of the potential of Sangiovese in the Panzano area.

Grape Varietal: 100% Sangiovese 

Organic