The 2021 growing season got off to a slow start. A cold, dry winter was followed by a cool spring with moderate rainfall; although the vines' growth was delayed, they caught up as the season progressed. This was followed by a long, hot summer, but the significant temperature difference between day and night prevented the fruit from ripening too quickly. Across Tuscany 2021 had a low yield but excellent quality.
The 2021 vintage is dense and thickly fruited; rather than a harsh texture, a long, velvety-smooth mouthfeel supports its body. The alcohol content is 14%. It is best enjoyed between 2015 and 2040.
The history of this wine dates back to 1981, when the first vintage was produced from just 15 barriques, which were first used at Fonterutoli at that time. Marchesa Carla Mazzei named this wine Concerto. The 2021 vintage was released in September 2023.
Robert Parker (95)
A blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 Concerto di Fonterutoli is a thickly extracted wine that carries its fruit weight over a long and velvety mouthfeel. The wine delivers dark fruit, cherry liqueur, spice and cured tobacco. This is a contemporary Tuscan wine with broad shoulders, bold structure and rich texture. It needs a few more years of bottle age to let the tannins smooth out.
James Suckling (95)
This is spicy and vibrant with a mix of red and dark berries with dried citrus peel, chili pepper and spicy herbs. Hints of bark, too. Full with layers of polished tannins and chalky, powdery texture. Juicy acidity coming through. Shows depth and concentration. Racy and long.
Jancis Robinson (17)
Bright, transparent crimson with shading. Pleasant inky nose with some black-pepper notes! Lots of vitality. But still quite dry on the end. For the future.
Vinous (94)
The 2021 Concerto di Fonterutoli, Mazzei's Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon blend, is plush and resonant to the core. Punchy, red-toned fruit, blood orange, cedar and spice all come together effortlessly, with plush, silky tannins that wrap it all together. Today the Sangiovese is super-expressive.
