Fontodi Terrazze San Leolino Chianti Classico 2019
Exceptional Chianti Classico offers a concentrated yet elegant palate of ripe red cherries and wild berries, intricately woven with savoury notes of herbs, crushed stone, and fine-grained tannins
Wine Type
Grape(s)
Alcohol %
Bottle Size
Location
Fontodi Terrazze San Leolino Chianti Classico 2019
The Fontodi Terrazze San Leolino Chianti Classico 2019 is a testament to the exceptional vintage and the unique terroir of its terraced vineyard. This inaugural release captivates the senses with a complex and alluring bouquet, weaving together vibrant notes of ripe red and black cherries, wild berries, and a hint of pomegranate. As the wine opens up, it reveals deeper aromatic layers of dried roses, violets, and subtle undertones of Mediterranean herbs, lending it a distinctly Tuscan character. The influence of its limestone-rich Alberese soils is evident in a pronounced minerality, reminiscent of crushed stone and wet earth, which adds a compelling dimension to the aromatic profile.
Upon the first sip, the Terrazze San Leolino displays a remarkable balance of power and elegance. The palate is graced with a concentrated core of juicy dark cherry and raspberry fruit, seamlessly integrated with savory notes of leather, tobacco, and a touch of spice. The wine’s structure is defined by fine-grained, yet firm tannins that provide a sophisticated framework and promise excellent aging potential. A bright, cleansing acidity runs through the wine, ensuring a fresh and lively mouthfeel that carries through to a long and persistent finish. This is a wine of great precision and focus, showcasing the purity of Sangiovese from a privileged site.
The overall impression of the Fontodi Terrazze San Leolino Chianti Classico 2019 is one of refined complexity and profound depth. While approachable in its youth, particularly after decanting, its true potential will undoubtedly be revealed with further cellaring. The lingering finish is marked by a return of both fruit and mineral notes, with a final, pleasing hint of salinity. This Gran Selezione is a compelling expression of Panzano’s “Conca d’Oro” (golden basin), a wine that speaks eloquently of its place and the meticulous craftsmanship of the Fontodi estate.
The production and aging of the Fontodi Terrazze San Leolino Chianti Classico 2019 are as meticulous and thoughtfully executed as the wine’s tasting profile suggests, reflecting a deep commitment to organic viticulture and a non-interventionist winemaking philosophy. This inaugural vintage is a pure expression of Sangiovese, sourced from a unique five-hectare, southwest-facing terraced single vineyard that sits beneath the historic church of San Leolino.
From Vineyard to Fermentation:
The foundation of this exceptional wine lies in its terroir. The vineyard’s calcareous “Alberese” soils, a type of limestone, are a distinguishing feature, contributing to the wine’s remarkable vibrancy, freshness, and distinct minerality. The Manetti family, owners of Fontodi, adhere to strict organic and biodynamic principles. This holistic approach eschews synthetic chemicals, instead fostering a healthy, balanced ecosystem in the vineyard.
The grapes for the 2019 Terrazze San Leolino were harvested by hand, ensuring that only the highest quality fruit was selected. In the winery, a gravity-flow system is employed to handle the grapes as gently as possible. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, utilizing only indigenous yeasts. This spontaneous fermentation allows for a more authentic expression of the vineyard’s unique microbiome. The maceration period, where the juice is in contact with the grape skins, extended for approximately three weeks, a crucial step in extracting the desired color, flavor, and tannic structure.
Aged to Perfection:
Following fermentation, the wine was transferred to French oak barrels and casks for an aging period of 24 months. This maturation was carefully managed, with a portion of the wine aged in new oak (around 30%) and the remainder in older, more neutral barrels. This balanced approach to oak aging allows the wood to subtly enhance the wine’s complexity, structure, and texture without overpowering the delicate aromatics and vibrant fruit character of the Sangiovese.
The aging in a combination of barriques (smaller 225-liter barrels) and larger casks provides a nuanced development. The smaller barrels contribute to a more intimate interaction with the wood, while the larger casks preserve the wine’s freshness and fruit purity. After this extended period in wood, the wine was bottled and allowed to rest further, integrating its various components and achieving a state of harmony before its release. This patient and thoughtful aging process is a testament to Fontodi’s dedication to producing wines of longevity, elegance, and profound character.
Sangiovese
The Sangiovese grape is a red Italian wine grape variety that is most notably associated with the wines of Tuscany. Its name is derived from the Latin sanguis Jovis, “the blood of Jupiter”. Here are some key points about Sangiovese:
Origin and Regions: Sangiovese is primarily grown in the central regions of Italy, especially in Tuscany. It thrives in subregions like Chianti, Montalcino, and Montepulciano, where it is used to craft wines that reflect the unique nuances of the land.
Characteristics: Young Sangiovese wines can exhibit fresh fruity Flavors of strawberry and a hint of spiciness. With aging, particularly in barrels, they can develop oaky or even tarry Flavors.
Wine Styles: Sangiovese is versatile and is used in both single varietal wines and blends. It’s the primary grape in iconic Italian wines such as Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and Chianti Classico.
Clones and Viticulture: There are at least fourteen clones of Sangiovese, including Brunello. The grape is rot-prone and requires careful vineyard management.
Global Presence: While its stronghold is in Italy, Sangiovese is also cultivated in other Old World wine regions and in the New World, though to a lesser extent.
Sangiovese’s ability to express terroir and age gracefully has earned it a revered status among wine enthusiasts, making it one of Italy’s most cherished grape varieties.
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
Sangiovese Wines available at Penventon Hotel
The Country
Italian wine, with its rich diversity and quality, is a reflection of the country’s deep-rooted wine culture and the varied terroirs that span from the Alpine slopes in the north to the sun-drenched islands in the south. Italy is renowned for being the world’s largest wine producer, offering an array of wines that are as diverse as its cuisine. From the robust and age-worthy Barolo and Barbaresco wines of Piedmont to the light and zesty Pinot Grigio of the Veneto region, Italian wines are made to complement a wide range of foods and occasions. The country’s winemaking history dates back thousands of years, influenced by ancient civilizations such as the Etruscans and Romans, and continues to evolve today. Each region boasts its own indigenous grape varieties, with over 350 officially recognized by the Italian government, contributing to the unique character and flavor profiles of Italian wines. Whether it’s a Chianti Classico enjoyed with pasta in a Tuscan villa or a crisp Prosecco toasting a special moment, Italian wines encapsulate the essence of la dolce vita—the sweet life
Italy Wines available at Penventon Hotel
The Region
Tuscany, the heart of Italian winemaking, boasts a rich history and diverse range of wines with styles such as
- Chianti: A classic red blend from Tuscany, Chianti is primarily made with at least 70% Sangiovese grapes. It ranges from light to full-bodied, offering red cherry fruit, herbal nuances, and earthy notes.
- Brunello di Montalcino: Produced around the town of Montalcino, this red wine is made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes. Initially juicy and spicy, it develops strong aromas of cherry and leather over time.
- Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: Produced around Montepulciano, this prized wine features Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile) as the main grape. Young versions display ripe red fruit, while aged ones develop robust flavors of tar, smoke, and leather.
Tuscany Wines available at Penventon Hotel
The Producer
Related Posts
| 2. Quick Exploration of Italian Wines |
