Vigna del Sorbo Chianti Classico Riserva 2016 Fontodi

Vigna del Sorbo 2016 is a single-varietal Fontodi's wine from the Panzano vineyard in Chianti, and a red wine known as Chianti Classico, made from grapes planted in 1963. These old vines play an extremely important role. It is precisely these grapes that give the wine its rich flavor and a complexity that feels like it has matured slowly, rather than an explosive burst of bright fruitiness.

The 2016 growing season for Chianti Classico began with cool, rainy weather, but subsequently turned hot and dry through July. A single rainstorm in August, midway through the growing season, eased the stress on the vines, and the late-ripening Sangiovese variety benefited from approximately 2 inches of rainfall in mid-September and the subsequent significant day-night temperature differences. It is precisely this contrast between warm days and cool nights that allows acidity to remain stable while the tannins mature.

Yields were below average across most of the region, with many producers seeing a decrease of about 15 to 20 percent compared to a typical harvest. Although the volume of wine decreased, the concentration increased.

The result is Vigna del Sorbo, a wine made from the Sangiovese grape variety. Combining a distinct structure with genuine freshness, this Chianti Classico is truly made for long-term aging. It is best enjoyed by 2050.

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