Fontodi Chianti Classico 2021

Fontodi is a leading estate of the Chianti Classico zone, farmed organically by the Manetti family in the natural amphitheatre known as the Conca d'Oro near Panzano in Tuscany. This wine is pure Sangiovese, the signature grape of the region, grown on the galestro and alberese soils of the area, schistous marl and limestone that are stony and poor and give the wine its firm structure, bright acidity and mineral savour. The Tuscan hillside climate is warm by day and cool at night, which holds acidity and builds the aromatics as the grapes ripen. The wine spends eighteen months in French oak, a raising that softens the tannins and adds a light spice and vanilla frame while allowing the fruit and earth of the Sangiovese to lead. The colour is deep ruby. The nose is rich, with ripe cherry and plum, violet and a savoury note of dried herbs, leather and tobacco, and the palate is medium to full bodied with firm, fine tannins, high acidity and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees. Good with roast meats, tomato pasta and hard cheese.