The Manetti family has owned Fontodi since 1969 but has been in Chianti for centuries. Though they have always made wine, their primary business is still the production of Chianti's finest terracotta at their factory in Ferrone. Giovanni Manetti has run the property since 1980 and ensures the wines are as meticulously made as the vineyards are immaculately tended. Their 80 hectares of vineyard, 90% of which are Sangiovese, are situated in the prime 'conca d'oro' (golden shell) of Panzano, and over the past six years these have been converted to organic viticulture. Giovanni is now following biodynamic principles to obtain the best quality fruit.
There are 80 hectares of south-facing vineyards, all of which are found in the Conca d'Oro (the 'golden shell'), an amphitheatre-shaped valley to the south of Panzano. This shape facilitates the full ripening of the grapes. The stony galestro soils allow for excellent drainage and encourage the vines to put down deep roots. The quality of the Sangiovese grapes from the Fontodi vineyards obviates the need for Merlot or other varieties as a remedial blender.
Vintage Information:
Spring was cooler than usual giving a delay of 10 days for the budding out and the flowering. Summer was almost perfect, very sunny and warm allowing a complete ripening process. At harvest, which took place later than recent vintages at the beginning of October, the grapes were perfectly healthy and ripe. The wines have a solid tannic structure and great freshness thanks to a higher acidity and a lower alcohol content. It is a vintage with great ageing potential.
Vinification:
Fermentation took place in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks for two weeks, during which time the cap was punched down twice a day. The wine was then racked into 225 litre French oak barriques (Troncais and Allier) where it remained for 24 months before bottling. The wine was matured in bottle for six months before release.
Tasting Notes:
Deep ruby red in colour, with perfumes of sour cherry and plums leading to notes of leather and tobacco. Great depth of flavour, with juicy fruit and supple tannins, giving the wine a silky-smooth texture. This wine has a great structure and finishes with a fine mineral note.
