Wines Chianti Classico Fontodi - Terrazze San Leolino - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Fontodi’s Terrazze San Leolino 2021, a Chianti Classico DOCG, beautifully exemplifies the elegance and finesse of Tuscan reds. Crafted primarily from Sangiovese, the region’s signature grape, this cuvée reflects the meticulous attention found at Fontodi. The 2021 vintage benefited from a mild spring, leading to balanced ripening and grapes expressing lively acidity and deep fruit concentration. The estate’s organic practices and careful vinification highlight the purity of fruit and the distinctive qualities of the terroir. Grapes are handpicked and vinified in stainless steel to preserve freshness, followed by ageing in French oak, which subtly enhances the wine’s structure without overpowering its aromatic profile. Expect a bouquet of wild cherries, blackcurrants, violets and a hint of tobacco, underpinned by earthy undertones and refined tannins.

Fontodi is located in Panzano, at the heart of Chianti Classico—a region long celebrated for its winemaking since Etruscan times. The terroir here is defined by the famed “Galestro” soil—a rocky, schistous clay that stresses the vines, resulting in wines of notable depth and minerality. Panzano is also part of the “Conca d’Oro”, a natural amphitheatre that provides optimal sun exposure and cooling breezes. The continental climate, marked by warm days and cool nights, promotes the slow maturation of Sangiovese, yielding wines with clarity, complexity and longevity.

This Chianti Classico is remarkably food-friendly. Classical pairings include Tuscan cuisine such as bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù over pappardelle, or a rustic roast pork with herbs. The wine’s acidity and tannic structure also complement aged pecorino, charcuterie, and earthy mushroom dishes.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for about an hour to reveal its nuances, and serve at 16-18°C. This temperature will allow the aromas and flavours to unfold gently, providing a true taste of the Chianti Classico terroir.