2019 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Riserva Del Sorbo, Tuscany

This iconic wine has all new energy, as it is now part of an exciting set of potential Gran Selezione wines made at Fontodi. Two new portfolio additions (Pastrolo from cool climate Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine of course benefits from many years of experience, and the Vigna del Sorbo identity is well established. But soil geeks will absolutely enjoy comparing Vigna del Sorbo from schistous galestro soils to the limestone alternative found in Terrazze San Leonlino. I tend to lean toward Vigna del Sorbo thanks to those etched mineral notes of pencil shaving and iron ore that I find so appealing. Those dusty notes are amply rounded off by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spice. Rising alcohol can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the winey team is leaving taller growth on the vines in the summer to cast shade and taking other active measures to combat this issue. Drink 2024 - 2050

97 points Monica Larner robertparker.com

The 2019 demonstrates all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site but it comes into harmony quickly, revealing its balance and precision. Wood-driven top notes of smoke and vanilla meld into pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh are wrapped in long, layered chalky tannins. Across the palate there's an energetic beam of unwavering acidity, giving the wine a linear feel. The finish reverberates with fennel and crushed stone.

97 points decanter.com

Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is a benchmark expression of Sangiovese, showcasing the power, elegance, and depth of Tuscany’s Chianti Classico region. Produced by Fontodi, a historic estate in the heart of Panzano, this wine comes from the prestigious Vigna del Sorbo, a southwest-facing vineyard with vines over 50 years old. Situated in the renowned Conca d’Oro, or “Golden Basin,” of Chianti Classico, the vineyard benefits from warm days, cool nights, and Galestro marl soils, which contribute to the wine’s structure, intensity, and aging potential. Fontodi has been a leader in organic and biodynamic farming, crafting wines that express the purity of their terroir while embracing both tradition and innovation.

In the glass, Vigna del Sorbo is deep ruby red with garnet reflections. The nose is complex and captivating, with layers of ripe black cherry, wild berries, and plum, interwoven with floral notes of violet and dried rose. Subtle hints of tobacco, cedar, leather, and crushed herbs add depth, while a touch of spice from aging in French oak lends warmth and refinement.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and impeccably structured. The richness of dark fruit is complemented by firm yet velvety tannins, bright acidity, and a core of minerality that reflects the vineyard’s limestone-rich soils. Notes of espresso, balsamic herbs, and graphite emerge as the wine evolves in the glass, leading to a long, persistent finish with lingering spice and savory depth.

This Gran Selezione is a perfect match for traditional Tuscan cuisine, including Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragu, and aged Pecorino Toscano. Its structure and balance also make it an excellent companion to roasted game, truffle-infused dishes, and braised short ribs. While drinking beautifully in its youth, Vigna del Sorbo has remarkable aging potential, continuing to evolve and gain complexity over 15–20 years.