Viniou Reviews
The 2020 Chianti Classico from Fontodi is a distinguished red wine hailing from the illustrious Tuscany region in Italy. This wine is crafted predominantly from the Sangiovese grape, which is the hallmark variety of the Chianti Classico appellation. Planted in the rolling hills of Tuscany, the vineyards benefit from a terroir that enhances the Sangiovese grape’s natural characteristics, resulting in a wine with robust flavours and vibrant acidity. The 2020 vintage reflects the favourable growing conditions of the year, with ideal weather patterns contributing to balanced fruit development and concentration. Fontodi is known for its commitment to quality, often employing traditional vinification methods that highlight the grape’s natural expression while incorporating modern practices to ensure elegance and finesse.
The Chianti Classico region itself is steeped in history, renowned for its viticultural heritage dating back to the Etruscans. The climate here is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and moderate winters, which are ideal for vine growing. The soils are predominantly galestro, a schistous clay, which, combined with limestone, aids in producing wines of complexity and depth.
This wine pairs beautifully with various dishes, thanks to its vibrant acidity and medium to full-bodied structure. Traditional pairings include classic Italian fare such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a hearty Tuscan steak, or Pappa al Pomodoro, a flavoursome tomato and bread soup. The wine’s earthy undertones and cherry notes also complement rich pasta dishes, like Tagliatelle with wild boar ragù.
For optimal enjoyment, it is recommended to serve this wine slightly below room temperature, between 16-18°C. Decanting it for around 30 minutes before serving can further open up the wine’s complex aromas, allowing you to fully appreciate the bold fruit flavours and the subtle oak influences typical of a skillfully crafted Chianti Classico.
