2021 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo

Fontodi’s Vigna del Sorbo is one of Tuscany’s great single-vineyard wines, drawn from a sun-drenched Sangiovese parcel in the Conca d’Oro amphitheatre of Panzano. Certified organic and now proudly carrying the Panzano UGA designation, it represents the beating heart of Giovanni Manetti’s vision for Chianti Classico.

The 2021 vintage has been hailed as historic for the region, and Vigna del Sorbo is a dazzling expression of it: dense, statuesque and built for the long haul. Aromas of black cherry, plum and violet mingle with licorice, mocha, cedar and dusty terracotta. On the palate, it shows power and generosity but also refinement, with plush fruit, velvety tannins and a mineral backbone that carries the finish deep and long.

The wine spent 14–15 months in barrique (25% new) before a further 7–8 months in cask, a regime that frames the fruit without overwhelming it. While it already displays remarkable complexity, patience will be handsomely rewarded – this is a wine to tuck away for at least a few years before it begins to reveal its full spectrum.

Critics have lined up with extraordinary praise: Vinous (97 pts) called it “utterly mesmerizing,” The Wine Advocate (98+ pts) picked it as a highlight of the vintage, while Jancis Robinson suggested it “could well be the best Vigna del Sorbo ever released.”

One of the icons of modern Chianti Classico, and a 2021 not to miss.

"Could well be the best Vigna del Sorbo ever released."
- Jancis Robison

"The Vigna del Sorbo stands out as one of my favorite wines from this region made in 2021."
- Monica Larner (The Wine Advocate)