94pts James Suckling

Subtle aromas of sliced strawberries and cherries with some orange peel follow through to a medium body with succulent tannins and a bright and tangy finish. Lovely energy in this one. So good now. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

92pts Vinous

The 2020 Chianti Classico offers notable tension to balance the natural richness that is such a signature here. There is plenty of Panzano intensity, but less opulence than has been the norm in the past. A shift towards larger format oak and bottling four months earlier contribute to that feel. Dark red cherry, leather, spice, rose petal, dried herbs and wild flowers all grace this nuanced Chianti Classico. It will be interesting to see the direction this bottling takes. I would not plan on opening this too young.

92pts Decanter

This flagship Chianti Classico from the renowned Fontodi estate has grown over the years to its current annual production of 170,000 bottles, however it has not lost its identity, deeply rooted in a sun-drenched stretch of Panzano’s Conca d’Oro. The 2020 version has all the ripe dark fruit and assertive tannins that come so neatly into balance. Grilled meat, baked earth and thyme flirt with black plum. The youthful juiciness has the energy to carry this over the next eight or so years. It finishes with its signature bitter liquorice twist.

About the Wine

Spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts and maceration in stainless steel tanks for at least 3 weeks. In barriques and French oak barrels for at least 18 months.

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