Wines Unspecified Fontodi - Flaccianello - 2012

Viniou Reviews

Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve 2012 is an exceptional red wine hailing from the heart of Tuscany, in central Italy. Composed exclusively from Sangiovese grapes harvested from the estate’s prime vineyards, this cuvée is renowned for its purity and expressive character. The 2012 vintage benefitted from a warm, balanced growing season that produced grapes with optimal ripeness and concentration. After manual harvesting and strict selection, the wine is traditionally vinified, typically with fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel, followed by an extended period of ageing in French oak barrels. This process enhances the wine’s aromatic complexity and structure, resulting in a cuvée that marries finesse and power with remarkable aging potential.

Tuscany is a region celebrated worldwide for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and a centuries-long tradition of winemaking. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers tempered by cooling breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea, which help retain freshness in the grapes. The soils in the Fontodi estate are predominantly “galestro”, a rocky schist that provides excellent drainage and imparts a distinctive minerality to the wines. The region’s winemaking heritage can be traced back to the Etruscans and was later refined during the Renaissance, positioning Tuscany as one of Italy’s most iconic viticultural areas.

Given Flaccianello’s depth, vibrancy, and intense Sangiovese character, it is a perfect partner for robust dishes such as Florentine steak (bistecca alla fiorentina), wild boar ragù on pappardelle, or Tuscan lamb with herbs. Traditional pecorino Toscano also makes a lovely match, as do earthy mushroom dishes or truffle-infused risottos, all of which highlight the wine’s elegance and aromatic complexity.

For the optimal tasting experience, decant for at least an hour before serving. Enjoy this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C to fully appreciate its bouquet of ripe cherries, violets, leather, and spice, as well as its refined tannins and lingering finish. This is a wine to savour now or continue cellaring for several years to come.