Wines Unspecified Fontodi - Flaccianello della Pieve - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Fontodi’s Flaccianello della Pieve 2021 is a shining example of Tuscan winemaking excellence, crafted exclusively from Sangiovese grapes carefully sourced from biodynamically farmed vineyards. This cuvée, named after a local church, is renowned for its purity and expressive character. The 2021 vintage benefited from ideal weather conditions, yielding grapes of remarkable balance, freshness and aromatic intensity. In the winery, great care is taken during fermentation and maturation—typically involving a lengthy period in French oak barrels—to encourage complexity and structure without overpowering the grape’s varietal personality. The result is a deep, ruby-red wine offering engaging aromas of black cherry, wild herbs, violet and fine spices. The palate is powerful yet elegantly restrained, with silky tannins and a persistent, harmonious finish.

Tuscany is synonymous with Sangiovese, and the Fontodi estate lies in the heart of the Chianti Classico area, famed for its warm days and cool nights thanks to its elevation and proximity to the Apennine mountains. The region’s galestro soils—rich in galestro schist and marl—create ideal drainage conditions, encouraging the vines to root deeply and concentrate their flavours. With a winemaking tradition dating back centuries, Tuscany balances tradition with innovation, and estates like Fontodi are at the forefront of sustainable, mindful viticulture.

A wine of this calibre deserves thoughtful pairings. Its bright acidity and ample structure make it an admirable companion for classic Tuscan dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina, wild boar ragù, or roast lamb with herbs. It also shines alongside hearty pasta, aged pecorino, and truffle-infused specialties. Mushroom risotto or grilled portobello for vegetarians would also be excellent options.

For optimal enjoyment, decant Flaccianello della Pieve 2021 for at least an hour before serving to allow full aromatic development. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to highlight both its aromatic finesse and textural depth. This is a wine that can reward patience, evolving beautifully over the coming decade.