Chianti Cl. Vigna del Sorbo Gran Selezione DOCG 2018 Fontodi

The Fontodi 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is simply gorgeous now and we should expect better things to come as the wine continues its bottle evolution. This organic, single-vineyard expression delivers impeccable balance and beautiful intensity throughout. The wine sports a developed fruit side that contrasts nicely against the spice and tobacco-like tones. The 2018 vintage can sometimes be hard to read. For example, this wine offers sharp acidity but it also sees a 15% alcohol content plus lots of enduring sweetness and ripeness. The tannins are especially supple and sweet.

Beautiful blue fruit with mahogany and violets. Full-bodied with creamy, polished tannins that show a beautiful polished and texture. So drinkable already.

There are some appealing elements of cherry and strawberry in this red, backed by a dense matrix of assertive tannins. Though astringent, this manages to find its way back to an equilibrium on the lingering mineral and savory aftertaste. Be patient.

The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is quite possibly the most elegant, refined version of this wine I have ever tasted. It does not offer the immediacy or impact of either the 2015 or 2016, but, instead, impresses with its elegance, persistence and total class. Bright floral and spice notes add perfume to a core of red-toned fruit. The 2018 represents another move towards greater finesse at Fontodi.