2009 Syrah Case Via
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Tasting notes
Fermented in tank with indigenous yeasts. 12 months in French oak, 50% new. Deep garmet, still looks very young. Dark and peppery but with a Tuscan meaty quality and, remarkably, a floral note. Really fragrant. Chewy texture but refined and mouth-watering even with its savoury, dark Syrah character. Dry yet supple and really elegant. Still a long way to go though it's harmonious and delicious now. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2009 Syrah caresses the palate with generous blueberries, blackberries and French oak. There isn't much varietal character or nuance here, instead the wine impresses for its silky tannins and creamy, expansive finish. Today the 2009 is all about fruit. With time in the glass, some hints of varietal character come through, but this remains a relatively soft, fruit driven vintage for the Syrah. It will be interesting to see if the full range of varietal notes develops.
The 2009 Syrah caresses the palate with generous blueberries, blackberries and French oak. There isn’t much varietal character or nuance here, instead the wine impresses for its silky tannins and creamy, expansive finish. Today the 2009 is all about fruit. With time in the glass, some hints of varietal character come through, but this remains a relatively soft, fruit driven vintage for the Syrah. It will be interesting to see if the full range of varietal notes develops. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. I was in Panzano in mid-August 2009, just as a huge heat wave began to take hold of Northern Italy. Growers were tempted to pick early, but Sangiovese is a late-ripening variety that needs the extra hang time to develop its full range of aromas and flavors. Proprietor Giovanni Manetti waited until late September to start harvesting, and it paid off. His Sangiovese based wines in particular are fabulous in 2009. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907
About the producer
Based just outside Panzano-in-Chianti, Chianti Classico estate Fontodi was acquired by the Manettis in 1968, a family which has established its modern reputation. Today the leading property is best known for its Flaccianello delle Pieve, the pure Sangiovese Super Tuscan first made in 1981.