The Fontodi estate is located in Panzano, almost at the center of the Chianti Classico region. Like Felsina, which claims an Etruscan origin for its name, Fontodi also has a long history; vines have been cultivated here since the time of the Roman empire, and documents prove there was vinification here as far back as the 16th Century, at a farmhouse then referred to as Case Via. The current owners, the Manetti family, also have many centuries of history in Chianti, although not with viticulture. For three hundred years this family has been renowned for the manufacture of terracotta, and it was not until 1968 that the family decided to move into wine, with the purchase of Fontodi.

Like the 1999 Castello della Paneretta Terrine, this was tucked a way with various bottle of Italian wines downstairs. Like the Terrine, I also expected this to be past its prime and while its better days were behind it, it didn’t disappoint. I poured a glass after decanting it for 30-40 minutes. It was medium ruby in color with just a touch of copper and rust. Aromatics of cherry, some violet, baked rhubard and musty pine. On the palate, sour cherry with currant and strawberry twizzler. A bit shallow on the mid-palate and a little short on the finish — but this was still quite good and paired well with food. 13% alcohol.