We are pleased to announce that we have received our allocation of the latest vintage of two of Tuscany’s finest wines, both from the Fontodi estate. These two wines, the Vigna del Sorbo and the Flaccianello, are truly exceptional wines ranking among Tuscany’s and Italy’s finest and both at favourable prices given their quality and longevity. Simon cannot endorse these wines enough having enjoyed so many vintages over the years. Antonio Galloni, our go-to critic for Italian wines, is also in agreement, as his comments below suggest.
Galloni on Vigna del Sorbo: ‘Readers who aren’t familiar with Vigna del Sorbo owe it to themselves to check it out what is without question one of the great reds of Italy.’
The grapes of Vigna del Sorbo are all sourced from the same eponymous vineyard located, as all of Fontodi’s Vineyards are, in what is referred to as the ‘conca d’oro’(the Golden Shell) in Panzano. This wine has been something of a flagship for the estate as it was one of the first Tuscan Sangiovese to be blended with a little Cabernet Sauvignon. Since the 2012 vintage however, Cabernet was entirely dropped from the blend, and Sorbo is now 100% Sangiovese. The fruit for Sorbo is fermented in stainless steel for 18 days before being aged in Troncais and Allier barriques, half of which are new oak, for 24 months.
Galloni on Flaccianello: ‘Flaccianello has routinely been among the most exciting wines in Tuscany.’
The Flaccianello started life in 1981 as a wine produced from grapes grown exclusively from the vineyard of the same name, however it has since evolved to become a composite wine of the finest grapes from the best parts across the estate. The soils across the Fontodi vineyards are the classic Tuscan ‘Galestro’ or Schist-based clay which sees Sangiovese yield some of its finest results. In comparison to the Sorbo, the Flaccianello fruit is fermented for a longer period of 25 days in stainless steel, and then moves into 100% new French oak (again Allier and Troncais) for the same period as the Sorbo of 24 months.
A word on 2013: This Tuscan vintage has great potential having benefited from an almost perfect summer, which allowed a fine ripeness to be achieved. Harvest was however later on account of a cooler start to the year and the grapes were healthy and ripe. They deliver good tannic structures underscored by a beautiful freshness. It is clear that 2013 has the attributes of a classic vintage with great ageing potential. Antonio Galloni is yet to release his notes, though I should add that high scores are anticipated. In the less uniform 2012 vintages he saw fit to award Vigna del Sorbo 98 points and Flaccianello 97. Please see below for notes from Victoria Stephens-Clarkson MW, Atlas’ buyer.
2013 Chianti Classico, Gran Selezione, Vigna del Sorbo, Fontodi
£195 per 6 bottle case in bond
At first, there is a deceptively restrained, quiet nature to the aromas of Vigna del Sorbo 2013. But these are swiftly followed by a more outspoken, rich, dark-fruited palate and sumptuous tannins of this classic vintage. This is a huge wine that, while not quite as dense in flavour as the Flaccianello, bears much of the same tautly-woven structure and smoothed texture. Hints of mint and lavender accompany the cherry, blackberry and spice notes on the finish. A little shy at first but with all the Sangoviese fruit and potential for complexity that characterizes this wine, from a strikingly good vintage. Drink 2018 - 2032. (VSC).
2013 Flaccianello, Fontodi
£270 per 6 bottle case in bond
Vibrant deep, dark red in the glass, Flaccianello 2013 exudes cassis and berry fruit on the nose, with a hint of spice. Unlike the 2012 which was relatively approachable in youth, the 2013 is a powerhouse, for long-ageing given its impressive tannic structure and naturally firm acidity. An assertive wine that will, despite considerable fruit concentration and freshness, take time to unfurl and reveal secondary and tertiary aromas that are the hallmarks of fine Sangoviese. For now, black fruits, tea, liquorice and cherries lead the palate with notes of mocha, herb and woodsmoke that point to the complexity to come. Built to last. Drink 2018-2035. (VSC)
I should stress that stocks are limited and we may need to ration clients’ requested volumes accordingly, certainly the Vigna del Sorbo is strictly rationed to one case of 6 bottles per client. You are therefore advised to let us know your orders at your earliest convenience.