2016 Flaccianello della Pieve

Proprietor Giovanni Manetti and his son Bernardo presented a stunning set of 2021s on my most recent visit. The wines embody the essence of site but in the more refined, nuanced style that is such a signature here today. Picking a bit earlier while also reducing French oak imprint has made a huge difference. I can’t recommend these new releases highly enough.

As for Giovanni Manetti, he continues to lead the way in Chianti Classico by making brilliant wines while also uniting producers around a vision for the region in his role as two-term President of the Consorzio del Chianti Classico. These are exceptionally rare qualities in any individual, but to see them in one person is impressive.

Proprietor Giovanni Manetti could certainly rest on his laurels. The wines have been benchmarks for some time. In recent years, Manetti’s influence as a leader in Panzano and Chianti Classico has exploded because of his role as the President of the Consorzio del Chianti Classico. Instead, Manetti has continued to acquire vineyards and introduce new wines while also quietly refining his approach with the established labels. The 2020s are a bit reticent, but they have also begun to soften in recent months. An example is the 2020 Vigna del Sorbo, which was brooding when I first tasted it a few months ago but is quite a bit more refined in recent tastings. “Two thousand twenty and 2021 are pretty similar,” Giovanni and Bernardo Manetti recounted at Fontodi. “There were perhaps more extremes weather-wise in 2021, but we also had greater diurnal shifts and a later harvest under cooler conditions.”

Proprietor Giovanni Manetti continues to push his estate into new directions. Readers will note the addition of a new wine, the 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leolino, which emerges from vineyards in Panzano near the San Leolino church. It will be followed next year by the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Pastrolo, Manetti’s first estate wine from terraced vineyard in Lamole at 640 meters in elevation. Naturally, those wines are works in progress, so it will be a few years before they reach the level of the other wines in the range. The dual flagships Vigna del Sorbo and Flaccianello are quite good in 2019, although they don’t reach the level of the finest years. The Chianti Classico, always a super-Chianti Classico here, is a standout. A reduction of time in small oak, along with a final phase of aging in cask and a greater emphasis in freshness overall are the key drives to the Fontodi style these days.

Giovanni Manetti’s 2018s are superb examples of the vintage. The wines are rich, but not at all heavy, and marked more by energy than volume. Flaccianello is simply extraordinary. Over the last few years the wines have gained notably through a greater use of large format wood and shorter time in oak overall. A rare producer whose achievements go beyond wine, Manetti was recently re-elected to a second term as President of the Consorzio del Chianti Classico. The value of his leadership for the entire region can’t possibly be overstated. Earlier this year Manetti was knighted as Cavaliere del Lavoro, one of Italy’s most prestigious and rare civilian awards.

I tasted a wide range of wines this year from Fontodi and proprietor Giovanni Manetti. The Filetta di Lamole Chianti Classico is a good example of a wine that is often a bit linear, but fills out a bit because of the heat of the growing season. Fontodi’s Chianti Classico is a sort of super-wine in its peer group, as it really has very few peers. It is also quite expressive today. I can’t say the same for the dual flagships Vigna del Sorbo and Flacciannello. Both wines are usually quite showy, but the 2017s are going to demand quite a bit of patience. I also had a chance to revisit the 2016s, which are every bit as magical as they were last year.

I tasted a wide range of wines this year from Fontodi and proprietor Giovanni Manetti. The Filetta di Lamole Chianti Classico is a good example of a wine that is often a bit linear, but fills out a bit because of the heat of the growing season. Fontodi’s Chianti Classico is a sort of super-wine in its peer group, as it really has very few peers. It is also quite expressive today. I can’t say the same for the dual flagships Vigna del Sorbo and Flacciannello. Both wines are usually quite showy, but the 2017s are going to demand quite a bit of patience. I also had a chance to revisit the 2016s, which are every bit as magical as they were last year.

It's hard to believe, but Giovanni Manetti continues to take wines to even greater heights. Two thousand sixteen is without a question the finest vintage I have ever tasted here. The wines have a level of focus and delineation that is truly remarkable. Of course conditions were ideal in 2016, with warm days, cool nights and no shock events. The decision to move towards gentler vinifications and also finish aging in cask for both Vigna del Sorbo and Flaccianello has paid off handsomely. Both wines are off the charts. I also tasted a 2018 Trebbiano from 60-year-old vines done in amphora with no malolactic fermentation that is savory, expressive and flat-out delicious. Hopefully it will become a commercial wine at some point. The future looks very bright at Fontodi, especially now that Manetti's children, Bernardo and Margherita, are part of the team.

Giovanni Manetti is one of the leading producers in Chianti Classico, both for his wines and the influence he wields as the newly elected president of the Consorzio del Chianti Classico. Over the last few years, Manetti has moved towards a style that emphasizes greater energy in the wines and less overt oak influence. Readers will find all that and more in these exceptional new releases. The top wines are thrilling, but the straight Chianti Classico is equally worthy of attention. To be frank, it is better than the top wine at a number of estates.

This is a gorgeous set of wines from Fontodi and proprietor Giovanni Manetti. The 2014s are nervous, tightly wound wines that are going to need a number of years to fully unwind, but they are full of potential. I also had a chance to revisit the 2013 flagships Vigna del Sorbo and Flaccianello, both of which are as tremendous as they have always been. Gentler winemaking, a move towards casks for aging the Chianti Classico and a reduction of the amount of time the Vigna del Sorbo and Flaccianello spend in French oak are some of the stylistic shifts that have taken place at Fontodi in recent years. These wines have never been as polished and finessed as they are today.

This is a gorgeous set of wines from Fontodi and proprietor Giovanni Manetti. The 2014s are nervous, tightly wound wines that are going to need a number of years to fully unwind, but they are full of potential. I also had a chance to revisit the 2013 flagships Vigna del Sorbo and Flaccianello, both of which are as tremendous as they have always been. Gentler winemaking, a move towards casks for aging the Chianti Classico and a reduction of the amount of time the Vigna del Sorbo and Flaccianello spend in French oak are some of the stylistic shifts that have taken place at Fontodi in recent years. These wines have never been as polished and finessed as they are today.

There is little doubt Giovanni Manetti is at the top of his game. After tasting these wines from bottle along with multiple barrel samples, my impression is that Manetti continues to make small but important changes that are moving his wines towards a style that emphasizes finesse over sheer power. Of course, 2013 and 2014 both yielded generally delicate wines, so some of that may be attributable to vintage characteristics. It is too soon to tell for sure. The Sangioveses still see about two years in oak, which is on the longer side, but the gradual introduction of casks in the cellar appears to be playing a significant role in giving the wines added polish and elegance. This year, Fontodi fans will notice the addition of a new wine, the Chianti Classico Filetta di Lamole, which Giovanni Manetti is making and marketing on behalf of relatives who own vineyards in Lamole, one of the few areas in Chianti Classico that have always been planted to vines as opposed to mixed crops, as was the custom in most of Tuscany up until fairly recently. Manetti adds that he plans to release all of his top labels in 2014, although production will be down sharply.

There is little doubt Giovanni Manetti is at the top of his game. After tasting these wines from bottle along with multiple barrel samples, my impression is that Manetti continues to make small but important changes that are moving his wines towards a style that emphasizes finesse over sheer power. Of course, 2013 and 2014 both yielded generally delicate wines, so some of that may be attributable to vintage characteristics. It is too soon to tell for sure. The Sangioveses still see about two years in oak, which is on the longer side, but the gradual introduction of casks in the cellar appears to be playing a significant role in giving the wines added polish and elegance. This year, Fontodi fans will notice the addition of a new wine, the Chianti Classico Filetta di Lamole, which Giovanni Manetti is making and marketing on behalf of relatives who own vineyards in Lamole, one of the few areas in Chianti Classico that have always been planted to vines as opposed to mixed crops, as was the custom in most of Tuscany up until fairly recently. Manetti adds that he plans to release all of his top labels in 2014, although production will be down sharply.

There is quite a bit to report from Fontodi. Proprietor Giovanni Manetti has a new wine this year, the 2013 Dino (dedicated to Manetti's father), which is 100% Sangiovese fermented in terra cotta amphora and aged with no added sulfites. The Manetti family has long operated businesses in a number of sectors outside of wine, one of them being the production of terra cotta amphoras, a vessel once used in the storage of olive oil as well as wine. Manetti's amphora Sangiovese is interesting because the fruit and overall style is very much classic Fontodi - which is to say intense and polished - yet the amphora clearly allows for a very direct expression of Sangiovese. It will be interesting to see how the Dino ages in bottle. The other big development is the transition of the Vigna del Sorbo to 100% Sangiovese now that the Cabernet Sauvignon vines have been completely ripped out. Vinous readers know I regard the Sorbo as Fontodi's flagship wine. While the 2012 is truly stratospheric, so is the Flaccianello. Judging by those two wines, it is clear Mother Nature smiled on Fontodi in 2012, a year that was much less favorable for other properties. When all is said and done, Fontodi produced not one, but two wines of the vintage. The only negative is that the international wines - the Syrah and Pinot Noir - are increasingly out of place here. This is Sangiovese territory, after all. Readers who can find Fontodi's 2012s should not hesitate, as they are truly magnificent.

There is quite a bit to report from Fontodi. Proprietor Giovanni Manetti has a new wine this year, the 2013 Dino (dedicated to Manetti's father), which is 100% Sangiovese fermented in terra cotta amphora and aged with no added sulfites. The Manetti family has long operated businesses in a number of sectors outside of wine, one of them being the production of terra cotta amphoras, a vessel once used in the storage of olive oil as well as wine. Manetti's amphora Sangiovese is interesting because the fruit and overall style is very much classic Fontodi - which is to say intense and polished - yet the amphora clearly allows for a very direct expression of Sangiovese. It will be interesting to see how the Dino ages in bottle. The other big development is the transition of the Vigna del Sorbo to 100% Sangiovese now that the Cabernet Sauvignon vines have been completely ripped out. Vinous readers know I regard the Sorbo as Fontodi's flagship wine. While the 2012 is truly stratospheric, so is the Flaccianello. Judging by those two wines, it is clear Mother Nature smiled on Fontodi in 2012, a year that was much less favorable for other properties. When all is said and done, Fontodi produced not one, but two wines of the vintage. The only negative is that the international wines - the Syrah and Pinot Noir - are increasingly out of place here. This is Sangiovese territory, after all. Readers who can find Fontodi's 2012s should not hesitate, as they are truly magnificent.

Fontodi fans have a lot to look forward to in these new and upcoming releases. The 2011 Chiantis and Flaccianello are gorgeous, especially within the context of a vintage that was especially warm here, in the heart of Panzano's Conca d'Oro. As readers will read in these notes, the 2011s have off the chart levels of polyphenols and acidity, an alluring and unusual combination to say the least. The new amphora-aged Dino shows proprietor Giovanni Manetti is not content to rest on his laurels. For more on Fontodi, readers might enjoy this short video interview shot with Manetti right after last year's complete vertical of the flagship Vigna del Sorbo. On that subject, Manetti is one of the few proponents of the Gran Selezione designation to use that label on his best wine, the Vigna del Sorbo, although in truth most people would probably say Flaccianello is the flagship. It goes without saying, but it would be great to see Manetti's colleagues show the same courage and conviction in a designation that is meant to highlight the best of Chianti Classico.

Fontodi fans have a lot to look forward to in these new and upcoming releases. The 2011 Chiantis and Flaccianello are gorgeous, especially within the context of a vintage that was especially warm here, in the heart of Panzano's Conca d'Oro. As readers will read in these notes, the 2011s have off the chart levels of polyphenols and acidity, an alluring and unusual combination to say the least. The new amphora-aged Dino shows proprietor Giovanni Manetti is not content to rest on his laurels. For more on Fontodi, readers might enjoy this short video interview shot with Manetti right after last year's complete vertical of the flagship Vigna del Sorbo. On that subject, Manetti is one of the few proponents of the Gran Selezione designation to use that label on his best wine, the Vigna del Sorbo, although in truth most people would probably say Flaccianello is the flagship. It goes without saying, but it would be great to see Manetti's colleagues show the same courage and conviction in a designation that is meant to highlight the best of Chianti Classico.

Giovanni Manetti's 2010s will one day be regarded as some of his greatest wines. From top to bottom, the Fontodi 2010s are superb. In particular, over the last few years I have been increasingly impressed with the Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo, which will be the subject of an upcoming feature covering every vintage back to the inaugural 1985. In the meantime, readers may want to take a look at this short video shot just after that tasting, or some of my thoughts on the 2010s, also on video. Fontodi fans may be aware that the Manetti family's original business was tile, so it is somewhat ironic that Giovanni Manetti is experimenting with terra cotta amphora, which his family manufactured up until the early 1920s. The 2012 Fontodi Sangiovese in amphora is....special.

Giovanni Manetti's 2010s will one day be regarded as some of his greatest wines. From top to bottom, the Fontodi 2010s are superb. In particular, over the last few years I have been increasingly impressed with the Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo, which will be the subject of an upcoming feature covering every vintage back to the inaugural 1985. In the meantime, readers may want to take a look at this short video shot just after that tasting, or some of my thoughts on the 2010s, also on video. Fontodi fans may be aware that the Manetti family's original business was tile, so it is somewhat ironic that Giovanni Manetti is experimenting with terra cotta amphora, which his family manufactured up until the early 1920s. The 2012 Fontodi Sangiovese in amphora is....special.

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.

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

Giovanni Manetti describes his 2008s as higher in acidity and lower in alcohol than his 2007s. The spring and early summer were quite damp, which caused quite a bit of shatter and therefore lowered yields considerably. The summer was on the cool side and the harvest began in late September. The 2008s are decidedly mid-weight wines from Fontodi, yet the acidities are excellent and the wines are texturally very fine. I would not at all be surprised to see some of these wines show even better in another 5$10.00 years. Such is the nature of Sangiovese.

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

Fontodi's 2007s have slightly lower acidities than the firmer 2006s, which makes them a touch more approachable and forward at this stage. That said, relative to most 2007 Tuscan reds, these are powerful, rich wines (Flaccianello in particular) that will benefit from some additional time in bottle. A maniacal attention to detail in both the vineyards and cellar sets Fontodi apart as one of Italy's most inspired producers. This is another set of beautiful wines from Fontodi and proprietor Giovanni Manetti.

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

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.

Proprietor Giovanni Manetti was quite selective with what he bottled in 2005. A considerable amount of wine was sold off in bulk, while the fruit from the flagship Vigna del Sorbo was used to strengthen the straight Chianti Classico, a wine that has turned out to be superb within the context of the vintage.

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This is another set of top-notch releases from proprietor Giovanni Manetti and long-time consulting oenologist Franco Bernabei.

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

Giovanni Manetti continues to turn out some of Italy's most compelling wines at Fontodi. Located in Panzano, the estate's 70 hectares of organically farmed vineyards are all in the famous Conca d'Oro subzone. The estate's top wine, the 100% Sangiovese Flaccianello della Pieve, was first produced in 1981. Flaccianello began its history as a single-vineyard wine. Over the last few years Manetti has begun to gradually re-plant portions of the vineyard. With the 2001 vintage Flaccianello is most accurately described as a selection of the estate's best fruit rather than a single-vineyard Sangiovese. As good as Flaccianello can be, readers should not ignore the estate's other wines, which are equally outstanding. Fontodi's Chianti Classico (100% Sangiovese aged in used barrique) is typically on of the region's best and the Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is one of the top Chiantis that employ international varietals. My recent visit at Fontodi ended with a tasting of several older vintages of Flaccianello, including the 1982, which was breathtaking for its poise and sheer beauty of expression. Simply put, I can't say enough good things about Giovanni Manetti and the wines of Fontodi.

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

Giovanni Manetti continues to turn out some of Italy's most compelling wines at Fontodi. Located in Panzano, the estate's 70 hectares of organically farmed vineyards are all in the famous Conca d'Oro subzone. The estate's top wine, the 100% Sangiovese Flaccianello della Pieve, was first produced in 1981. Flaccianello began its history as a single-vineyard wine. Over the last few years Manetti has begun to gradually re-plant portions of the vineyard. With the 2001 vintage Flaccianello is most accurately described as a selection of the estate's best fruit rather than a single-vineyard Sangiovese. As good as Flaccianello can be, readers should not ignore the estate's other wines, which are equally outstanding. Fontodi's Chianti Classico (100% Sangiovese aged in used barrique) is typically on of the region's best and the Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is one of the top Chiantis that employ international varietals. My recent visit at Fontodi ended with a tasting of several older vintages of Flaccianello, including the 1982, which was breathtaking for its poise and sheer beauty of expression. Simply put, I can't say enough good things about Giovanni Manetti and the wines of Fontodi.

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years

This complete vertical of Fontodi’s flagship Flaccianello was fascinating on so many levels. Needless to say, the opportunity to check in on prior vintages and see how they are developing was a big privilege. Even more importantly in this case, though, was following the path proprietor Giovanni Manetti took in his quest to establish Flaccianello as one of the great wines of Tuscany.

Flaccianello is 100% Sangiovese from Panzano’s famed Conca d’Oro, an amphitheater of steep hillside vineyards just outside the town center. Along with San Giusto a Rentennano’s Percarlo, Montevertine’s Le Pergole Torte, Isole e Olena’s Cepparello, and a few others, it is one of the great, pure-breed Sangioveses made in Chianti Classico. Interestingly, Flaccianello became a 100% Sangiovese only 1985. Prior to that Manetti used 15% white grapes in his blend, a practice that was obligatory at the time in Chianti Classico. Originally conceived as a single-vineyard wine, in 2001 Flaccianello became a selection of the estate’s best fruit, a decision Manetti made as his vineyard holdings grew to include a number of spectacular parcels in Panzano’s Pecille district. Since then, Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany. The early vintages up until 1990 spent about one year in French oak barrels, 50% new. In the mid-1990s Manetti increased the period of barrel aging to 18 months with the 1997, and then to 24 months with the 2006. Today the percentage of new barrels is close to 100%.

Fontodi Flaccianello Key Points:

1. 100% Sangiovese aged in French oak barrels

2. Since 2001 made from the estate’s best fruit across a number of vineyards in Panzano’s historic Conca d’Oro, prior to that a strict single-vineyard wine.

3. Flaccianello’s status as an icon wine is cemented beginning in 2001

4. One of the more powerful of the 100% Sangioveses from Chianti Classico

5. Aging potential: 20+ years