Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve 2019

Fontodi "Flaccianello della Pieve" 2019 is a standout expression of pure Sangiovese from the heart of Tuscany’s Chianti Classico region. Produced by Fontodi, one of the region’s most respected estates, this wine hails from their top vineyard sites in the Conca d’Oro, a sun-drenched valley known for its ideal growing conditions. The estate has long been committed to organic farming, and "Flaccianello della Pieve" reflects the meticulous care and tradition of Tuscan winemaking.

On the nose, the 2019 vintage reveals inviting aromas of ripe black cherries, dark berries, and floral hints of violets, intertwined with savory notes of leather, tobacco, and Mediterranean herbs. The palate is full-bodied and layered, with refined tannins, bright acidity, and a core of concentrated red fruit. Subtle oak influence and mineral undertones add complexity, leading to a long, polished finish. This wine is perfect for aging, with the potential to evolve over decades.

Wine Spectator: 94
This smooth red is highlighted by macerated black cherry, blackberry and oak spice flavors. Harmonious, with a kick of refined tannins on the long finish. A polished style with the structure to age. Sangiovese.

Wine Advocate: 98
The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another stunning wine that sums up the character of the vintage and reflects the sun-drenched beauty of its quintessentially Tuscan surroundings. Giovanni Manetti and his team have two new important wines in the works, but Flaccianello remains an old love and a wine that hits the highest marks for quality consistency vintage after vintage. I tasted this wine next to the 100-point 2016 vintage for friendly comparison, and perhaps the main difference is that the tannins are finer and more accessible in this bottle. It offers rich concentration and layers of dark fruit that wrap thickly over the senses. Tannin management is an active pursuit. Time in barrique has been reduced over the years in favor of a final six-month resting period in larger oak casks. In fact, the barrel room was recently enlarged to give more room to these bigger vessels. The 2019 vintage recalls the balance of 2001 with the freshness of 2013. However, 2019 is more profound.

Wine Advocate: 98

The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another stunning wine that sums up the character of the vintage and reflects the sun-drenched beauty of its quintessentially Tuscan surroundings. Giovanni Manetti and his team have two new important wines in the works, but Flaccianello remains an old love and a wine that hits the highest marks for quality consistency vintage after vintage. I tasted this wine next to the 100-point 2016 vintage for friendly comparison, and perhaps the main difference is that the tannins are finer and more accessible in this bottle. It offers rich concentration and layers of dark fruit that wrap thickly over the senses. Tannin management is an active pursuit. Time in barrique has been reduced over the years in favor of a final six-month resting period in larger oak casks. In fact, the barrel room was recently enlarged to give more room to these bigger vessels. The 2019 vintage recalls the balance of 2001 with the freshness of 2013. However, 2019 is more profound.

Vinous: 94
The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another potent wine from Fontodi in this vintage. That said, it has more than enough mid-palate heft and overall intensity to balance its equally imposing tannins. Black cherry, mocha, licorice, lavender, spice and tobacco fill out the layers. The 2019 needs time to integrate its oak and for the imposing tannins to soften.

James Suckling: 96
Blackberry, black-cherry, bark and ink aromas follow through to a full body with tight, integrated tannins and a solid core of fruit at the same time. A little hard and tight now. From organically grown grapes. Needs time to open.

Jeb Dunnuck: 97
Also entirely Sangiovese from the best selections across the Fontodi vineyards in the amphitheater of the Conca d'Oro, the 2019 Flaccianello Della Pieve was raised for two years in French oak barrels. It pours a similarly rich red sanguine color and reveals toasty aromas of incense, blackberries, sage, and sappy earth. More robust than the Vigna del Sorbo, it’s full-bodied without being heavy and offers supple, ripe tannins, a seamlessly integrated structure through a long finish, and dark mineral tones that last for days. Another fantastic, age-worthy wine, it’s certain to improve if well stored.

Jeb Dunnuck: 97

Also entirely Sangiovese from the best selections across the Fontodi vineyards in the amphitheater of the Conca d'Oro, the 2019 Flaccianello Della Pieve was raised for two years in French oak barrels. It pours a similarly rich red sanguine color and reveals toasty aromas of incense, blackberries, sage, and sappy earth. More robust than the Vigna del Sorbo, it’s full-bodied without being heavy and offers supple, ripe tannins, a seamlessly integrated structure through a long finish, and dark mineral tones that last for days. Another fantastic, age-worthy wine, it’s certain to improve if well stored.