Fontodi Chianti Classico 2017

94 pts Vinous

The 2017 Chianti Classico Fontodi is a wine of extreme elegance that shows how much the house style has evolved here. A decade ago, in a warm year the Fontodi Chianti Classico would have been opulent, but these days proprietor Giovanni Manetti seeks finesse more than power, and that is exactly what comes through here. Ripe red Sangiovese fruit, rose petal, blood orange and spice infuse this racy, exotic Chianti Classico with so much character. The 2017 spent two years in oak, half in cask and half in neutral oak. I loved it.

94 pts James Suckling

A rich, layered CC with intense cherry and flower character, as well as orange peel. Full-bodied with firm, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. Drink or hold.

92 pts Wine Spectator

Ripe black cherry, blackberry, iron, juniper and thyme flavors mark this solidly built red. The balance walks the line between the rich profile and the assertive tannins that deliver grip on the long finish. Best from 2021 through 2032. 7,800 cases made, 2,800 cases imported.

91 pts Wine Advocate

The Fontodi 2017 Chianti Classico gives the impression of being slightly mature or advanced, even now straight out of the gate. The hot and dry vintage has shaped aromas of candied cherry, dried plum, rum raisin, white chocolate and a dusty note of wet chalk. The wine is quite beautiful in terms of mouthfeel, with well-integrated alcohol and tannins that close without sharpness or astringency. This dark and sultry Sangiovese shows moderate fruit, focused mostly on dark blackberry and dried cherry. I would recommend a near-term drinking window for this pleasantly rich and accessible wine.