Fontodi Filetta di Lamole Chianti Classico 2019

This is a distinctive and fun wine that cements Giovanni Manetti's growing fondness for the high-elevation Lamole area of the appellation that has always been regarded as somewhat detached or isolated from the rest of the appellation. In the face of climate change, the authenticity of Lamole, and its cooler growing conditions, are an important asset. Manetti tells me that 2018 was a good year, but it rained more and was generally harder to manage. The 2019 vintage is classic, with balanced results thanks to regular weather patterns. The organic 2019 Chianti Classico Filetta di Lamole speaks to a wine style that is winning over those who love elegant Sangiovese. The wine is punchy and bright with a pretty array of wild cherries, blue flowers and dusty mineral. Manetti says he remembers how those same fresh aromas filled the winery during fermentation. Fruit comes from a nine-hectare property at 600 meters in elevation owned by a cousin. But Fontodi also recently acquired more vineyards in Lamole to grow this program.

By Monica Larner February 2023