FONTODI Chianti Classico 2007 The Manetti family has owned Fontodi since 1969 but has been in Chianti for centuries. Though they have always made wine, their primary business is still the production of Chianti.s finest terracotta at their factory in Ferrone. Giovanni Manetti has run the property since 1980, building a new cellar in 1998 and ensuring the wines are as meticulously made as the vineyards are immaculately tended. Their 70 hectares of vineyard are situated in the prime .conca d.oro. (golden shell) of Panzano, and over the past six years these have been converted to organic viticulture. Giovanni is now following biodynamic principles to obtain the best quality fruit. The south facing vineyards and their natural amphitheatre shape allows the grapes to ripen fully. Soils here are allows for excellent drainage and encourages the vines to put down deep roots. The quality of the Sangiovese grapes from the Fontodi vineyards obviates the need for Merlot or other varieties as a remedial blender. 2007 was characterised by a hot summer, with occasional rainfall at the right time, encouraging the grapes and tannins to ripen well and slowly. Fermentation took place in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks for 2 weeks during which time the cap was punched down twice a day. The wine was then racked into 225 litre French oak barriques (Troncais and Allier) where it remained for 12 months before bottling. The wine was matured in bottle for 6 months before release. Youthful, deep-ruby in colour with lovely perfumes of ripe, lightly spiced strawberries and dark cherries on the nose. "Blackberry and dark plum aromas follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a bright, fruity finish. There.s nice a combination of bright fruit and clean acidity." 91 points, James Suckling, Wine Spectator, 31 Oct 09 SILVER - Decanter World Wine Awards 2010 GOLD - Sommelier Wine Awards 2010 Vintage 2007 Grape varieties 100% Sangiovese Region Panzano Winemaker Giovanni Manetti Consultant Winemaker Franco Bernabei Closure Cork Bottle Sizes 37.5cl, 75cl Find this wine at www.winestore.co.uk Price: £111.95 (Including VAT at 20%)