2011 Fontalloro
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Darkest ruby with black core. Very ripe, almost over-ripe cherry fruit but just on the right side of the line. Some dried fruits and fruit cake. Has those same dried fruits on the palate but the acidity and the spice and dense tannin structure take you well away from the sweet fruit. Deliciously savoury and dry on the palate. Needs time. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2011 Fontalloro is a pure expression of Sangiovese with fruit sourced from the Chianti Classico area and the Colli Senesi area. It ages in new and once-used barrique for up to 22 months. Aromas flow with authority, spanning a large swath of fruit and oak-related attributes. The best part, however, is the aromatic layering: Slices of bright cherry fruit, dark chocolate, polished river stone and tilled earth peel back fluidly. It shows a superior sense of integration and balance.
Felsina's 2011 Fontalloro is wonderfully expressive today. Dark red cherry, plum, smoke, rose petal and sweet spices all blossom in the glass. Impeccably layered and sensual, the 2011 captures all the best qualities of the year. Sweet floral and red-toned notes burst with great energy on the structured finish. Fontalloro seems to have come a long way over the last few years. The 2011 is another drop-dead gorgeous beauty.