2012 Fontodi Chianti Classico Riserva Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo

Wine Advocate (WA)

Vigna del Sorbo became a Gran Selezione wine starting with the 2010 vintage, although the first vintage ever made was 1985. The 2012 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo represents the first vintage in which the wine is made with 100% Sangiovese. Past vintages saw anywhere from five to ten percent Cabernet Sauvignon, but Giovanni Manetti pulled the vines to show his "commitment to Sangiovese," he says. "There's no going back." The Sangiovese comes from 45-year-old vines planted to southeast exposures in Galestro-rich limestone calcareous soils. This vintage in particular shows drying mineral sensations of brimstone and talc powder. The root systems on these plants are deep, resulting in added finesse and complexity. Feminine notes of rose petal and wild berry also appear. This wine offers a beautiful interpretation of Sangiovese with an extra level of fresh acidity at the rear. -Monica Larner

Vinous Media (VM)

The 2012 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is one of the greatest wines I have ever tasted at Fontodi. Period. The long, sublime finish alone is enough to stop you in your tracks. An exceptionally beautiful and polished wine, the 2012 is incredibly finessed on the palate, with remarkable nuance for such an intense wine. Sweet rose petal, lavender and mint add brightness to the Sangiovese fruit in a stunning, vivid Chianti Classico that hits all the right notes. This is the first vintage in which Vigna del Sorbo is 100% Sangiovese. The elimination of 10% Cabernet Sauvignon has elevated the Sorbo to an even higher level than has been the norm of late. Over the last few months, the 2012 has begun to shut down in bottle, so readers will have to be patient. The 2012 Vigna del Sorbo is a must have wine. It's as simple as that. -- Antonio Galloni