The 2021 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is one of Tuscany’s most iconic wines and a benchmark for the Gran Selezione category. Produced by the Manetti family from a historic single vineyard in the heart of Panzano’s renowned Conca d’Oro, Vigna del Sorbo has been a reference point for Chianti Classico since its first release in 1985. Predominantly Sangiovese with a small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is sourced from organically farmed vineyards on galestro-rich soils, delivering exceptional concentration, elegance and longevity. The outstanding 2021 vintage is widely regarded as one of the finest of the past decade.
The nose is captivating, revealing black cherry, wild blackberry and plum alongside notes of violet, tobacco leaf, cedar, graphite and exotic spice. The palate is powerful yet beautifully refined, combining intense dark fruit with silky, finely structured tannins and vibrant acidity. Layers of liquorice, Mediterranean herbs, crushed stone and dark chocolate unfold through a long, seamless finish of extraordinary precision and depth. The balance between richness, freshness and mineral complexity is a hallmark of this legendary vineyard.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A world-class Chianti Classico and one of Italy’s great Sangiovese wines. Elegant, complex and profoundly age-worthy, it pairs beautifully with bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised beef, lamb, wild boar and aged Pecorino. Enjoy with a generous decant if drinking now, or cellar through 2045–2060 as it develops even greater complexity, savoury nuance and refinement.
