Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 'Vigna Del Sorbo' 2021
The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is an absolute stunner. Deep, layered and explosive, the 2021 captures all of the magic of this year in spades. Black cherry, lavender, mocha, spice and licorice all soar out of the glass. A wine of statuesque beauty elegance, the 2021 is utterly mesmerizing. I would be in no rush to drink this. The 2021 spent 14-15 months in barrique (25% new) and then 7-8 months in cask. Drink 2028-2046, 97 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com, June 2024
‘Giovanni Manetti and his family have produced an excellent set of new wines that elegantly interpret the 2021 vintage. My favorite of the bunch is the 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Panzano Vigna del Sorbo, which has a very slight edge over the Flaccianello della Pieve, in my view.
Now boasting the proud Panzano UGA on the front label, the Fontodi 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Panzano Vigna del Sorbo is a little more delicate, even subdued, compared to its new brother, the more exuberant Terrazze San Leonlino. Vigna del Sorbo is a little more tuned in on itself, aromatically speaking, but reveals just enough complexity and sheer beauty to believe in the promise of its future aging potential. Even now, tasted so young, the wine's pedigree is evident. It excels in terms of complexity and depth. The tannins are velvety soft, and soft mineral aromas add focus. This certified expression of Sangiovese comes from a single parcel within the sun-drenched Conca d'Oro basin of vines that distinguishes Panzano.
The Vigna del Sorbo stands out as one of my favorite wines from this region made in 2021.
Drink 2025-2046, 98+ Points – Monica Larner eRobertParker.com, July 2024
‘Panzano. Certified organic (QC).
Deep ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Lifted and perfumed and at the same time displaying brooding cherry fruit. Lush, juicy fruit, mouth-filling but maintaining effortlessly a certain elegance. Long gravelly tannins and juicy fruit on the finish. Could well be the best Vigna del Sorbo ever released.
(WS)Drink 2026-2036, 18e Points – JancisRobinson.com, Feb 2024
‘Wow. There’s a richness and decadence to this, with cherry, orange peel, stone and terra cotta notes as well as crushed stone and cedar. It’s medium-bodied with a solid core of fruit and a very long, lingering finish. Extremely structured. From organically grown grapes. Try after 2026.’
96 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com, April 2024
