I am always impressed by the wines of Fontodi. The 2011 Chianti Classico is a base wine from this excellent estate in Panzano-in-Chianti, although it aspires to much more. The bouquet is slow to open but once it does, it shows dark berry nuances with light touches of tobacco and dried rose petal. The 2011 vintage is a step below 2010 and 2009 (two vintages that Fontodi interpreted exceptionally well), but not by much.

Reinforced by beefy tannins, this black cherry– and plum-filled version offers floral and spice accents. In a modern, fruity style, yet not oaky, this stays lively and persistent through the long aftertaste. Best from 2016 through 2027. 15,000 cases made, 4,500 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Chianti Classico Select to Add