2012 Fontodi Chianti Classico

Fontodi's production reaches 300,000 bottles per year and this wine is the lion's share at 60% of the total. The 2012 Chianti Classico is a pure expression of Sangiovese that sees two years in botte and neutral barrique (wood that is used to make Flaccianello and Vigna del Sorbo). The vintage was hot and dry, but there was a big drop in temperatures right before the harvest that resulted in more noticeable acidity and less fruity intensity in terms of the bouquet. In fact, there is a noticeable crunchiness to the tannins and the wine offers flavors of wild berry, cassis and mild spice. Despite the difficult vintage, this wine bears all the hallmarks of Fontodi's winemaking excellence.

This has the ripeness of the Felsina just tasted, but a more savoury, meaty aroma too – utterly inviting. Firm, chewy and full of flavour, perhaps just a little drying at the moment. Needs time. (JH)

The 2012 Chianti Classico is round, sweet and super-expressive. Dark red cherry, spice and tobacco meld together as this silky, open-knit Chianti Classico shows off its inviting personality. Succulent and racy to the core, the 2012 will drink well pretty much upon release. This is another fabulous showing from Fontodi.