Sangiovese
75cl * Biodynamic, Vegetarian & Organic * 14.5% ABV * Tuscany, Italy
The Manetti family has owned Fontodi since 1968 but has been in Chianti for centuries, producing the finest terracotta at their factory in Ferrone. The same attention to detail on their terracotta has been brought to bear on Fontodi over the past 50 years, transforming a crumbling farmhouse with a few hectares of vineyard into one of Chianti Classico’s most impressive estates. Giovanni Manetti has run the property since 1980 and ensures the wines are as meticulously made as the vineyards and cellar are both immaculately tended. Giovanni has converted to organic viticulture and is now also following biodynamic principles to obtain the best quality fruit.
‘Flaccianello’, made from a selection of the estates best Sangiovese grapes, is fast becoming one of Italy’s most sought-after wines. This Super Tuscan is powerful, fleshy and ages beautifully. The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another outstanding example of the Fontodi flagship wine. Ripe, dark cherries and bright cranberry aromas are juxtaposed with violet, plum, sandalwood, spice and leather notes. This wine has wonderful structure, the tannins are muscular, yet well-integrated and balanced. The palate is typically rich and full complemented by racy acidity and characteristically fine, supple tannins. The finish is flavourful and persistent.
99 points, Othmar Kiem & Simon Staffler - Falstaff Italian Wine Guide 2023
96 points Susan Hulme (The Wine Independent): "This 2019 Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve was originally a single vineyard wine but in recent years it has become a blend of the best Sangiovese from different vineyards. It has a very appealing sweet black cherry nose with some exotic oak spice like sandalwood or incense. It is smoky and creamy on the palate, round and spicy with lots of lavish oak which is covering the fruit a little bit right now. It has very attractive, tangy acidity and quite firm, slightly dry tannins. It is still very young and not quite in complete harmony yet but has great potential to age gracefully. For owner Giovanni Manetti, “The 2019 vintage in Panzano in Chianti had great balance - it was never too hot and never too dry.” Drink 2024 to 2039." (Sep 2022).
96 points James Suckling: "Blackberry, black-cherry, bark and ink aromas follow through to a full body with tight, integrated tannins and a solid core of fruit at the same time. A little hard and tight now. From organically grown grapes. Needs time to open. Try after 2025." (8th Aug 22)
94 points Wine Spectator: "This smooth red is highlighted by macerated black cherry, blackberry and oak spice flavors. Harmonious, with a kick of refined tannins on the long finish. A polished style with the structure to age. Sangiovese. Best from 2023 through 2040." (30th Sep 22)
94 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another potent wine from Fontodi in this vintage. That said, it has more than enough mid-palate heft and overall intensity to balance its equally imposing tannins. Black cherry, mocha, licorice, lavender, spice and tobacco fill out the layers. The 2019 needs time to integrate its oak and for the imposing tannins to soften. Drink: 2026-2044." (Jul 2022)
Drinking Window 2024 to 2045.