2020 Chianti Classico

With fruit from Lamole, the Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico Pastrolo is now in its second vintage, and my understanding is that the wine will soon be elevated to Gran Selezione status to fill out the house portfolio with three separate wines that fit into this highest level of the denomination. This organic Sangiovese shows a careful balance of dark fruit against crushed rose and sweet spice. It closes with fresh acidity that stands out in this production of 1,400 bottles. The wine was fermented in clay amphorae and aged in oak (both barrique and botte).

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.

Panzano. 100% Sangiovese. Certified organic. Youthful ruby. Subtle yet enticing nose of sweet red fruit with meaty notes and hints of laurel. Lots of juice on the palate and plenty of grainy but ripe tannins; but they are in perfect harmony with the succulent fruit. (WS)