Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 95
Here is yet another surprise from Fontodi born during the pandemic. A second new addition to the portfolio, the 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leonlino is made with organic fruit from a parcel near the little chapel of the same name in the Conca d’Oro of Panzano. The winey team had noticed a difference in quality from this 4.5-hectare site with limestone alberese soils at a cool 450 to 500 meters in elevation. The best fruit from 15-year-old vines was put aside to make this 5,000-bottle inaugural release. The celebrated Vigna del Sorbo is not too far away, but compared to the wine made from that site, Terrazze San Leonlino is sharper, more focused and offers streamlined fruit weight. The bouquet veers toward wild roses and Mediterranean herb, giving more vertical push to the aromas. The tannins are silky and polished. This new brand will grow slowly over the coming years
Anticipated maturity: 2024-2040
Vinous 91
The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leolino is a new wine in the Fontodi range. Dark and imposing, the 2019 packs a serious punch in its dark fruit, earth, mineral flavors. There is plenty of impact, but less in the way of finesse. Black cherry, cloves, lavender, licorice and mocha. The 2019 spent 22 months in oak and then 4 months in cask. The San Leolino is clearly a work in progress. I find the French oak overpowering.
Anticipated maturity: 2024-2034
