FONTODI
TUSCANY, ITALY 2020
Why Buy: We’ve never met a bottle of Fontodi that we didn't love – and there are some, like the 100-point 2016 Flaccianello della Pieve (deemed perfect by both Robert Parker and Vinous) or the 97-point 2019 Vigna del Sorbo Gran Selezione, that we revere. Today's six-pack from this Tuscan titan is both a showcase of its recent portfolio and a testament to its remarkable range, from outrageous values (like their 92-point, entry-level 2020 Chianti Classico) to their powerhouse, 95-point Vigna del Sorbo Gran Selezione to their flagship 2020 Flaccianello, an absolute must-have for serious collectors.
The Story: Among Tuscan producers, the name Fontodi is in a class by itself — the gold standard; the estate by which all others are judged. And under the magisterial direction of proprietor Giovanni Manetti, Fontodi continues, somehow, to reach new levels of magnificence. These are wines that speak deeply of place, and that reveal the precision and soul of their craftsmanship little by little, bidding you to savor deeply as you sip.
The Specs: Fontodi's wines rest upon the finest of foundations. And we mean that quite literally: much of their character and complexity can be explained by the superior, high-elevation Galestro soil in its vineyards, the building block of the greatest wines of Chianti Classico.
Our Tasting Notes: We won't go into notes for all six, except to say that we would argue that truly great producers ought to be judged on their entry-level wine as much as on their benchmark bottling. And this is where Fontodi's greatness shows: both the Chianti Classico 2020 and the Chianti Classico Filetta di Lamole are more than table wines; they have the layered depth and even elegance we’ve come to expect from Manetti’s best. Speaking of which: the Flacianello is, as we had hoped, a decadent, full-throttle experience, one of the rare wines that can turn any occasion into a special memory.
What to Pair Them With: Though you'll want to save the Flaccianello for a special moment with friends, think rich, red sauces for the others (pasta Bolognese, veal parmigiana, even pizzas), roasted or grilled meats (rack of lamb, porterhouse, double-cut pork chops).
Fun Fact: In 2018, Manetti was appointed chairman of the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico, and has focused his efforts on a new micro-level labeling policy. If approved, all Chianti Classico labels would bear the name of the village or district from which the grapes were sourced.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured: your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure your order today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2023. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in DE, IL, IN, KY, LA, MI, MO, NC, NM, NY, TN, & WI. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Monday, August 7, 2023.
