Viniou Reviews
Fèlsina’s Fontalloro 2013 is a remarkable Tuscan red wine, crafted predominantly from Sangiovese grapes, the emblematic varietal of the region. This cuvée, while not strictly confined to a single DOCG, draws fruit from both the Chianti Classico and neighbouring Chianti Colli Senesi zones, thus representing a fascinating interplay of terroirs. The 2013 vintage benefitted from a relatively cool and balanced growing season with some late summer warmth, allowing for optimal ripening and an elegant structure. The vinification process respects tradition, with fermentation in stainless steel, followed by maturation in small French oak barrels for up to 18 months, which lends a fine balance of fruit purity and well-integrated oak complexity. In the glass, Fontalloro reveals intense aromas of dark cherry, blackcurrant, tobacco and dried Mediterranean herbs, with notes of leather and sweet spice emerging with age.
The wine hails from Tuscany, a region globally lauded for its viticultural heritage. Tuscany’s undulating hills are a patchwork of vineyards on clay and limestone soils, the latter particularly prized for giving Sangiovese both finesse and robust structure. The region enjoys a predominantly Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers tempered by cool breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea and light rainfall. Such conditions, coupled with centuries of winemaking savoir-faire, enable the crafting of profound reds with both power and elegance.
Fontalloro’s style commands hearty food pairings. Roasted or grilled red meats, such as Florentine steak or slow-cooked beef ragu, are ideal. It also pairs beautifully with Tuscan specialities like wild boar pappardelle or aged Pecorino cheese. The wine’s acidity and tannin profile cut through rich sauces and enhance rustic meat dishes, while its savoury undertones shine alongside mushroom risotto or game birds.
For optimal appreciation, decant the wine at least an hour before serving to allow its aromatics to unfold fully. Serve at 16-18°C, which will accentuate its nuanced bouquet and polished tannins. Fontalloro 2013 is drinking beautifully, yet holds excellent potential for cellaring, promising further complexity over the years.
