2006 Fontodi Chianti Classico
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Tasting notes
The Chianti Classico is typically one of the last Chiantis to be bottled, but the 2006 shows all the qualities I encountered when I tasted various lots prior to final assembly and bottling. It is a big, super-ripe Chianti that captures all of the best qualities of the vintage in its rich fruit and beautifully defined aromatics. This is a serious, structured Chianti that can be enjoyed now, but that also has the stuffing to age gracefully for years.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
The Chianti Classico is typically one of the last Chiantis to be bottled, but the 2006 shows all the qualities I encountered when I tasted various lots earlier, prior to final assembly and bottling. It is a big, super-ripe Chianti that captures all of the best qualities of the vintage in its rich fruit and beautifully defined aromatics. This is a serious, structured Chianti that can be enjoyed now, but that also has the stuffing to age gracefully for years. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. My visit to Fontodi last year was fascinating, as I spent several hours with proprietor Giovanni Manetti and oenologist Franco Bernabei tasting through multiple barrels of all of the estate’s wines. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907
Ripe, luscious cherry flavour with firm, taut structure and lengthy finish. Crunchy, attractive fruit – very good. (RH)
The Chianti Classico is typically one of the last Chiantis to be bottled, but the 2006 shows all the qualities I encountered when I tasted various lots earlier, prior to final assembly and bottling. It is a big, super-ripe Chianti that captures all of the best qualities of the vintage in its rich fruit and beautifully defined aromatics. This is a serious, structured Chianti that can be enjoyed now, but that also has the stuffing to age gracefully for years. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. Aug 2009, www.robertparker.com
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.