In the valley of Conca d'Oro (the Golden Basin) just south of the town of Panzano are the illustrious vineyards of Fontodi. This estate, dating back to the times of the Roman empire, is at the epicenter of the Chianti Classico region and much like another favorite producer of mine, Felsina, seems to churn out remarkable bottlings year after year and the new release of their 2006 Chianti Classico is no exception. The Manetti family, with three centuries of heritage in the Tuscan region as terracotta manufacturers, decided to purchase the estate in 1968 and it is now Giovanni Manetti who is in charge. Granted this winery has garnered its most praise for its Flaccianello della Pieve bottling but their straight Chianti Classico is well worth a look, particularly for the avid Tuscan collector. This 100% Sangiovese bottling beautifully showcases the philosophy of the Fontodi estate as it represents the soil characteristics of the region thanks to its optimal southern exposure vineyards and the natural marl soil with its excellent drainage. With layers of dusty, tobacco laden cherry fruit on the palate and aromas of spiced plum and earth, this red is rich and yielding and shows all the graciousness of character of the 2006 vintage. If you have yet to discover the wines of Fontodi, this one will have you hooked and like me, you will more than likely become one of Fontodi's new followers for years to come!
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