At a glance

Producer

Fontodi

Region

Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$90

Tasting profile

Red cherry, plum, violet floral notes, hints of spice and earthiness

Evolution: Developing secondary aromas of leather, tobacco, and forest floor as it ages

At peak: Complex layers of fruit, spice, well-integrated oak, and silky tannins

Structure

Acidity

Bright and balanced

Tannins

Firm and ripe, well-structured

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Excellent, 15+ years total

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2049

Optimal window

2025 to 2052

Current status

Approaching early maturity, gaining complexity

Current condition

Firm tannins and vibrant acidity, developing tertiary notes

This wine’s firm tannins and high acidity from 100% Sangiovese and Gran Selezione classification support extended aging. The 2017 vintage in Chianti Classico was very good, enabling the wine to develop complexity over 15+ years with its structured backbone allowing gradual evolution.

Food pairing

Roasted and grilled red meats, game (wild boar, venison), aged cheeses, mushroom risotto

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow tannins to soften and aromatics to open fully

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Fontodi employs organic viticulture, avoids synthetic chemicals, uses natural soil management techniques; energy efficient winery operations; water conservation implemented via drip irrigation;

Fontodi’s commitment to certified organic farming combined with efficient winery practices and focus on sustainable soil and water management results in a high sustainability score. While transport emissions exist due to international distribution, the producer’s local environmental efforts substantially reduce their footprint compared to conventional non-organic estates.