Fontodi Vigne Del Sorbo Chianti Classico Riserva 2008
Fontodi is a wine producer in the Chianti Classico region of Tuscany. It is known particularly for its Super Tuscan wine, Flaccianello delle Pieve, a full-bodied varietal Sangiovese.
The estate is located in the heart of the Classico zone, south of Panzano, in the valley known as the Conca d'Oro, (or golden shell) due to its sun-catching amphitheatre shape. The microclaimte here is warm and dry with a large diurnal temperature variation to ensure that the grapes reach full maturity without compromising the acidity level. The soils of the 70 hectare (173 acre) vineyard are a combination of chalk, clay and schist. The Flaccianello della Pieve wine comes from a selection of the best plots of Sangiovese, but other varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are also cultivated.
Critical Acclaim
96 Vinous
Dark cherry, plum, graphite and savory herb notes flesh out in the 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo. Here the greater presence of Cabernet Sauvignon versus the earlier vintages in the tasting is clearly felt in the wine's structure, depth and pure power. Cassis, mint and layers of black fruit inform the finish. The 2008 is going to require a few more years in bottle but it is striking, even today. Over the last two years, the 2008 has developed beautifully. The fruit has begun to blossom, giving the 2008 a sense of mid-palate pliancy that was missing when the wine was first released.
94 James Suckling
Lots of blueberry and vanilla character in this rich and balanced Chianti Classico. Full body, with velvety tannins and a long finish. Try it in 2012 to let it come together more in the bottle. This single vineyard Chianti Classico Riserva from Fontodi is always a killer.
93 Wine Advocate
The 2008 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo is beautiful in this vintage. It shows gorgeous mid-palate depth and pliancy, with wonderful richness in its sweet dark fruit, smoke, licorice and grilled herbs. The 10% Cabernet Sauvignon works particularly well in this vintage, as it seems to give the wine a measure of depth and delineation that is less obvious in the Flaccianello. Higher toned floral notes add lift on the finish. The Vigna del Sorbo is a touch restrained in 2008, as are most wines, yet it shows fabulous balance and tons of personality. Anticipate
90 Wine Spectator
This has grip and fine Sangiovese character, evoking bitter cherry, tobacco, leather and spice flavors. A harmonious wine, lingering with an aftertaste of tobacco and mineral. Best from 2013 through 2020.
