Had a delightful experience sharing a glass of Fontodi Dino Chianti Classico 2020 with friends at Manteca. This wine represents Fontodi’s unique amphora selection of Sangiovese. The grapes originate from vineyards located in the valley’s cooler areas, which experience significant temperature variations between day and night. Moreover, the Pietraforte soil contributes to the wine’s finer tannins.
This particular Chianti is vinified and fermented in traditional unlined amphorae that range from 400 to 500 liters. These vessels are crafted using techniques passed down through a family with a 400-year history of tile-making, fired at 950°C. The result is a wine that is both fleshy and expressive, showcasing sweet black cherry and plum fruit complemented by fine spiciness.
The tasting notes reveal a supple structure with rich flavors of red cherries and plums, along with a hint of tar. The wine showcases excellent tension, balancing the sweet red berry notes with a stony, mineral depth. Its purity and brightness make it truly lovely, meriting a score of 95/100.