2007 Fattoria Le Fonti Chianti Classico Riserva D.O.C.G.
Mission Codename: Return of the Lucky Horseshoe
Operative: Agent White
Objective: Acquire an exclusive allocation of an exceptional Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG
Mission Status: Accomplished
Current Winery: Fattoria Le Fonti
Wine Subject: 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG
Winemaker: Dr Stefano Chioccioli
Backgrounder:
Chianti Classico DOCG is produced in one of the eight sub-regions in the Chianti region. This one hales from the Panzano In Chianti commune located about halfway between Florence and Sienna, a region known for having among the finest Chianti made. The DOCGrequires that these wines range from 75-100% Sangiovese grapes and often is blended with Caniolo Nero, Trebbiano, Malvasia or Cabernet Sauvignon (regular Chianti is limited to no more than 90% Sangiovese).
This Chianti Classico DOCG is mostly Sangiovese with a little Cabernet and Merlot blended for good measure, and while is still considered youthful, is drinking wonderfully right now and has exceptional cellar potential. The finest Chianti Classico, such as this one, can age gracefully for up to 20 years and are also among the funnest food wines from Italy.
Wine Spies Tasting Profile:
Look – Dark and dense garnet with a clear dense heart that has glistening streaks when held to the light. The color remains garnet-red to the edges. When swirled widely spaced slow fat legs ring the glass.
Smell – Rich and redolent with notes of spiced black and red-fruit, black licorice and complex woody and oaky component blend with a hint of herbaceousness, bittersweet chocolate and a touch of of hot and exotic spice.
Feel – This full-bodied well developed wine is dry, expansive, smooth and warm in its attack and has with a touch of spice and tangy and racy acidity hitting at mid palate as the finely textured tannins and minerality that grips the tongue and lasts into the finish.
Taste – Great balance between its tangy red (cherry and ripe plum), ripe black fruits (blackberry) with hints of licorice, toasted and complex oak that doesn’t overpower but is still quite present along with a touch of hot exotic spice. Layers of vanilla, toast along with herbal and mineral components that adds depth.
Finish – Extremely long and smooth and clean with tightly woven tannins and acidity grasping the fruit, oak and spice for several minutes.
Conclusion – The 2007 Fattoria Le Fonti Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, like the exceptional previous vintage is a fantastic wine that sets the bar high. Classic aromas and flavors with fantastic acidity and texture making this wine ideal for classic Tuscan cuisine. Youthful still, but drinking very well right now – let it breathe for a half hour or so. A fine example of one of the region’s best wines and a worthy addition to your personal collection of fine Italian classics.
Mission Report:
Agent White and the winemaker have been reported A.W.O.L., having been last seen enjoying this wine at a trattoria on the outskirts of Florence.
Wine Spies Vineyard Check:
The location of the Fattoria Le Fonti can be seen in this satellite photo.