2022 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Riserva Del Sorbo, Tuscany

Clear and fresh aromas of black cherries and citrus rind with some blood orange undertones. Medium-bodied, firm and silky, with a polished texture and a long, intense finish. Very fine tannins. Give it two or three years to soften slightly but there’s pretty energy to this. From organically grown grapes. Drink after 2027

95 points James Suckling

From the celebrated Conca d'Oro amphitheatre of Panzano comes one of Chianti Classico's modern icons. Vigna del Sorbo has been part of the Fontodi estate since the 1960s, and over the decades it has established itself as one of Tuscany's great single vineyard expressions of Sangiovese. The combination of altitude, galestro soils and meticulous organic farming consistently produces wines of remarkable intensity, elegance and longevity.

Under the stewardship of Giovanni Manetti, Fontodi has become one of Italy's benchmark estates, helping redefine what Chianti Classico can achieve at its highest level. The outstanding 2022 vintage delivered fruit of exceptional purity and concentration, allowing Vigna del Sorbo to showcase both the power of Panzano and the finesse that has become the hallmark of this celebrated wine.

Deep ruby garnet in colour, the bouquet is captivatingly complex, revealing aromas of black cherry, red plum and wild berries layered with violet, dried herbs and sweet spice. As the wine opens, notes of tobacco leaf, cedar, blood orange and earthy nuances emerge, creating extraordinary depth and intrigue. The palate is beautifully sculpted, delivering concentrated dark and red fruits supported by finely woven tannins and vibrant acidity. There is tremendous energy beneath the wine's structure, while the finish unfolds slowly with layers of spice, mineral detail and savoury complexity.

This is a magnificent partner for bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised lamb shoulder, wild boar ragù, porcini mushroom dishes or aged Pecorino Toscano. While already immensely rewarding with careful decanting, the pedigree and structure of Vigna del Sorbo promise decades of graceful evolution.