2015 Flaccianello della Pieve

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.