Deep in color, this sumptuous red shows both power and finesse, packed with blackberry, black currant, violet, iron and spice flavors. Expressive and beautifully balanced, yet poised for a long evolution thanks to its solid structure. Shows superb refinement, ending with a long aftertaste. Best from 2025 through 2043. 875 cases made, 400 cases imported.

Aromas of ripe cherries, bark, wet earth, and spice follow through to a full body with chewy and velvety tannins that are buttressed with some juicy acidity that gives complexity and focus to the wine. From organically grown grapes. Better after 2025 when it softens up.

The Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leonlino (a certified organic wine) is a new addition to this exciting portfolio, now in its second vintage. With fruit from the upper part of the Conca d'Oro of Panzano, this wine shows a more robust and powerful personality with a strong 15% alcohol content. It ages in barrique and botte for 24 months. The bouquet is rich with cherry liqueur, blackberry kirsch and dried plum. There is more fruit weight here and you taste the ripeness in the grape skins. The wine has an almost carbonic quality that reminds me of cherry cola, and it ends on a sweet note with soft tannins. Only 5,000 bottles were made. - ML

The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leolino is another super-appealing wine in this range. Dense and packed, the 2020 captures the richness of Panzano beautifully. Succulent red cherry, red plum, spice, tobacco and incense infuse the palate with notable depth, framed by piercing acids that give the wine its distinctive personality. This remains a work in progress.