Flaccianello della Pieve is the pure Sangiovese of Fontodi, the Manetti family estate in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano, the most famous amphitheatre of vines in Chianti Classico. First made in 1981, it is one of the historic all-Sangiovese Super Tuscans; the name recalls the nearby Pieve di San Leolino. Giovanni Manetti has taken the estate to certified organic farming.
The grapes come from a selection of the best vineyards in the Conca d'Oro, on south-facing galestro and clay. After fermentation the wine ages for about two years in French oak barriques and rests in bottle before release.
2016 is one of the most celebrated Chianti Classico vintages in decades, with a balanced season and perfect ripening. In the glass morello cherry, plum, violet, herbs, spice and an earthy note, with dense tannins, vibrant acidity and great length. One of the summits of Sangiovese, alongside Cepparello and Le Pergole Torte. For the cellar, or with bistecca alla fiorentina and game.
At a glance: Sangiovese 100% · 15% ABV · 0.75 l · Fontodi, Panzano in Chianti (FI)