2008 Fontodi Flaccianello Della Pieve
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Tasting notes
Here's a vintage that came out of left field and knocked me flat with delight. The 2008 Flaccianello della Pieve is just my kind of Sangiovese with a gorgeous level of silkiness and smoothness, all followed by tangy menthol freshness and balsam herb that give so much momentum to the vertical lift and drive of the bouquet. The wine's complexity is enhanced by drying mineral notes with barbecue smoke and mesquite. There is a slight hint of ripeness here that you taste in the sweetness of the tannins and the satiny nature of the finish. I love the balance between the wine's natural acidity and the softer side of its fruit. This vintage is drinking beautifully at the moment. Don't miss this exciting window.
Critic scores
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2008 Flaccianello della Pieve is quite pretty, even if it is a bit buttoned up. It possesses lovely perfume and sweet Pinot-like fruit backed by acidity and structure that are unquestionably those of Sangiovese. Today the 2008 impresses for its energy and verve. It should be a fabulous wine to drink in another few years, once the tannins settle down a bit. This is yet another 2008 that has grown considerably in stature over the last year. (AG)
The pureness of fruit is so intense here. It's also so clean and beautiful. The wine shows fabulous aromas of flowers, blueberries, and raspberries. It’s full-bodied, with chocolate, licorice, and plums. The texture is very velvety. This is a wine in near perfect proportions.
The Pinot Nero is surprisingly rich in 2008. It shows plenty of varietal character backed up by significant Tuscan muscle. Sweet dark cherries, earthiness and tobacco take shape beautifully in the glass. The aromatics aren't quite as focused or delineated as is often the case, but otherwise this is a very fine showing in a tricky vintage.
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.